APS' incoming chief is already effectively calling the shots, district says

While Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent Scott Elder still has a few months left in his contract, his successor, Gabriella Blakey, has already largely taken the reins of leading New Mexico’s largest school district.

The sitting superintendent, who’s led APS for more than 3½ years, is soaking up some of his accumulated sick and vacation time, district spokesman Martin Salazar confirmed in an email.

“Superintendent Elder will be around periodically for specific APS engagements, but, for the most part, he will not be returning to the office,” Salazar wrote.

Elder’s contract is set to expire June 30. He’s spent more than three decades with APS.

In his place, Blakey is the district’s acting superintendent and has appeared at news conferences and board meetings.

When she was selected, the school board said Blakey would work with Elder to learn the district. In the weeks since she was selected, Salazar said the two have met numerous times, discussing instruction, the district’s budget and “various other matters to ensure a smooth transition.”

“Beyond that, Superintendent Elder is making himself available to Dr. Blakey on an as-needed basis to answer questions and consult on any issues that arise,” Salazar added.

While she’s already been thrust into the position, Blakey told the Journal she feels prepared for the work, and that this time will allow for a smoother transition.

“I’m just getting some running room to be able to start July 1 pretty secure in where we’re going for the next school year,” she said. “So I think this transition time gives the time to be able to do that, to get some systems in place and to change up things that need to be changed and be able to hit the ground running in July.”