Albuquerque Public Schools
Gen-O Project Launches to Modernize APS Systems with Oracle Cloud
Phased rollout of next-generation finance and HR system will bring real-time data, streamlined services and improved employee access.
A major transformation is underway at Albuquerque Public Schools. The district has officially launched Gen-O, a bold, multi-year project that will transition APS from its aging Lawson software system to Oracle Cloud, a cutting-edge platform designed to support Finance and Human Resources operations.
Having served APS for more than 25 years, Lawson has helped manage everything from budget development and expenditure monitoring to leave requests. But as technology continues to evolve, so must the systems that support the district’s nearly 12,000 employees. That’s where Gen-O comes in.
“The Gen-O project represents a step forward for Albuquerque Public Schools, in large part because it aligns with our district’s Strategic Plan. We are committed to creating and utilizing responsive and coordinated systems that create a more efficient use of resources,” Superintendent Gabriella Blakey said. “I’m looking forward to Gen-O’s implementation because it will move us forward.”
Why Oracle Cloud?
Oracle Cloud has already been successfully implemented in several large urban school districts across the country. The platform is known for its agility, robustness and the ability to deliver real-time data—a major leap forward from what the Lawson system can provide.
The new system will ultimately enhance decision-making districtwide and provide all employees with better tools and access.
“We’re excited about Gen-O because the software will modernize our financial system, give our people real-time information, and give employees access to data that our aging current system simply couldn’t provide,” Chief Financial Officer Rennette Apodaca said. “It will take time to fully implement, but once Gen-O is in place, I believe everyone associated with APS will be pleased.”
A Phased Approach for Success
Understanding that a project of this size and complexity will impact nearly everyone at APS, the Gen-O team is taking a phased approach to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption.
Phase 1: Finance Applications
Slated to go live July 1, 2026, this phase will affect users of the current Lawson financial applications, including school principals, secretaries and bookkeepers. Key benefits include:
- Access to Oracle from outside APS facilities
- Streamlined approval processes
- Real-time data for faster decision-making
Phase 2: Human Resources and Payroll Applications
This phase will introduce Employee Self-Service (ESS), allowing employees to:
- Update benefits and personal information
- Report time and request leave
- Access the system remotely
“The Human Resources team at APS is excited about the possibilities this conversion will bring,” Chief of Human Resources and Legal Support Services Todd Torgerson said. “We believe Gen-O will streamline many of our processes and allow us to be even more responsive to employees’ needs. HR is a department that’s critical to all of our employees, and the Gen-O project will dovetail with Superintendent Blakey’s expectation of top-quality service to anyone associated with APS.”
Training and Support
To prepare staff for the transition, APS will roll out a comprehensive training program in the weeks leading up to the July 2026 launch. While the full training plan is still in development, the district is committed to ensuring employees are well-supported throughout the change.
“The district for many years has relied on a software system that is aging, and the coming of the Gen-O project offers the opportunity to modernize our financial and HR systems,” Chief Technology Officer Richard Bowman said. “A solid and thoughtful implementation plan will allow the district to better serve its employees for many years to come.”
Learn More
More information, including a full project timeline and FAQs, will be available to staff throughout the project. APS is committed to keeping all employees informed as Gen-O progresses.
Stay tuned for updates, training opportunities and resources to help everyone prepare for this exciting new era of technology at APS.