APS District News

CEC and ECA Celebrate Milestone Anniversaries

Posted March 10, 2026, 1:30 PM. Updated March 10, 2026, 1:30 PM.

Anniversary Block Party will highlight decades of opportunity, career pathways, and student success at two of APS’s most unique programs.

This spring, Albuquerque Public Schools is celebrating two major milestones in student opportunity and innovation. The Career Enrichment Center is marking its 50th anniversary, while the Early College Academy celebrates 20 years of preparing students for college and career success.

The campus will host a special celebration on March 19 where guests can explore classrooms, meet students and see firsthand how these programs connect academics with real-world learning. Visitors will have the chance to walk through program areas where students will demonstrate the skills they are developing in a variety of career pathways.

For five decades, the Career Enrichment Center has provided APS students from across the district with hands-on career exploration and technical learning opportunities. Twenty years ago, the Early College Academy expanded that vision by blending rigorous academics with college coursework and career preparation.

The impact is clear. Last year alone, students earned more than 1,300 dual credit hours and Early College Academy students achieved a remarkable 99.75 percent graduation rate, one of the highest in New Mexico. Many graduates leave with college credits, industry certifications, internships and practical experience that prepares them for life after high school.

The Career Enrichment Center and the Early College Academy continue to serve students from every APS high school, creating pathways where student voice matters, families are partners and opportunity is open to all.

Click here for the digital flyer for full event details: ECA-CEC 50/20 Celebration Flyer

Learn more about CEC and ECA on the school website.