Q&A Albuquerque Public Schools Board Joshua Martinez

Name: Joshua Martinez

Political party: Democrat

Age: 37

Education: B.A. in Community Health, University of New Mexico; Master’s in Public Administration, University of New Mexico

Occupation: Health Equity & Community Impact Director, American Diabetes Association

Family: Married to Hannah, three children ages 10, 5, 3. Two in APS schools (Tres Volcanes)

Relevant experience: Parent, nonprofit leader, former City of Albuquerque Board of Ethics member, HOA and neighborhood association president, ABQ Westside Business Association vice-chair, coach, and longtime community advocate.

Campaign website: https://www.martinezforaps.com/

1. What’s the biggest issue APS faces? How would you address it?

Too many students are falling behind, and too much money is spent without results. I’ll focus on proven strategies in reading, math, and science, fund classrooms instead of bureaucracy, and ensure teachers have the tools they need to succeed.

2. In your opinion, what is the primary role of a school board member?

The primary responsibilities of the board are:

○ Create and adopt district policy

○ Hire, evaluate, fire superintendent

○ Review and approve the budget

As a board member, I will always put students first, set clear goals, listen to families, and hold APS accountable for results.

3. How would you evaluate the current school board’s performance?

I believe this board is on the right track. I do believe that the goals could be more aggressive. We must prioritize academics, accountability, and community trust.

4. What experience do you have overseeing a budget?

As a nonprofit director, I oversee statewide initiatives with significant budgets. As a home owner association president, I manage a multi-million dollar budget responsibly to serve families and improve community well-being.

5. The board recently let its contract with D.C.-based consultant Council of the Great City Schools expire. Do you believe that was the correct call, why or why not?

I believe at the time when the contract was approved, it was necessary. Council for Great City Schools has the experience and foundation for Student Outcome Focused Governance. We must always look for the best options that will improve student outcomes.

6. Do you believe that the goals and guardrails the district has adopted are still effective and relevant, why or why not?

They provide structure, but APS must ensure they translate into measurable progress in literacy, math, and graduation rates. If not, they should be updated.

7. The district recently changed the poverty threshold for schools to qualify for Title I funding, do you believe that was the correct decision?

The district receives limited funding from the federal government for Title 1 and it is imperative that the funding is targeted towards the students that need it most. I support ensuring district funds go to the schools that serve the most underserved students first.

8. What’s your stance on school vouchers?

I oppose vouchers. Public funds must strengthen public schools, not be diverted to private institutions.

9. What’s your stance on charter schools?

I support high-performing charter schools with strong accountability. Families deserve access to quality options rather than be limited to the options determined by their zip code.

10. Do you believe APS is doing enough to comply with the landmark 2018 Yazzie/Martinez court ruling?

No. APS must do more to support bilingual education, cultural relevance, and services for at-risk students to ensure equity across the district.

11. Do you believe changes should be made to the APS student cell phone use policy, per a new state law? How do you think the district should handle cell phone use on school grounds?

Yes. Phones should not disrupt learning, but policies must be fair, consistent, and allow safe communication when needed.

12. Do you believe more steps should be taken to address school security issues, including firearms on or near school grounds? If so, what would you propose?

Yes. Student safety must be a top priority. I believe we need to look at all available technology and resources to keep guns off our campuses. I’ll also support stronger campus security, improved emergency protocols, and more mental health professionals in schools to prevent crises before they occur.

Personal background

Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?

No.

Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?

No.

Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, or any misdemeanor or felony?

No.