OPINION: Progress isn't partisan. Let's stay the course at APS

I spent more than three decades in New Mexico classrooms and school offices — as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent. In every role, one truth has held: Students do best when adults focus on teaching and learning, set clear goals, measure progress and stick with what works.

I also come to this conversation with a deep respect for educators and public employees. When I began my teaching career, I was a card‑carrying member of the Albuquerque Teachers Federation. Later, as a state senator, I sponsored New Mexico’s public employees collective bargaining law. Supporting educators’ voices, professionalism and working conditions has always gone hand in hand with my belief in strong, accountable public schools.

Albuquerque Public Schools recently posted its strongest districtwide results since New Mexico adopted its current statewide assessment in 2022. English language arts proficiency increased by 4.8 points, and math by 2.3 points. These are not abstract averages. Multiple schools recorded double‑digit gains, proof that aligned instruction, quality materials and focused leadership make a real difference.

High school outcomes are improving as well. The class of 2024 graduation rate reached 75.9% — up 4.3 points and outpacing the statewide increase. Gains among Hispanic students and English learners are especially encouraging, even as persistent gaps remind us that the work is unfinished. Schools such as Bellehaven Elementary, which saw a 21‑point jump in English language arts, and Matheson Park Elementary, with a 16.2‑point gain in math, show what’s possible when expectations and supports align.

Progress for Native students is another important bright spot. In the context of the Yazzie/Martinez ruling, which affirmed the state’s obligation to provide an equitable education for historically underserved students, APS has made measurable gains. Graduation rates for Native students have risen faster than the state average, and targeted literacy and math supports are expanding in schools serving tribal communities. Equity does not happen by chance; it requires sustained focus and follow‑through.

What changed? In 2023, the APS Board of Education adopted SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) goals, committed to monthly progress monitoring and invested in high‑quality, standardized instructional materials. These decisions were shaped by extensive community engagement, including input from educators and families. The district expanded structured literacy training grounded in the science of reading and tied leadership evaluations to student outcomes. These are practical, proven strategies — not ideological statements — and they respect teachers by giving them the tools to succeed.

Improvement takes time. New Mexico did not arrive at the bottom of national rankings overnight, and we won’t climb out overnight either. Constant course‑corrections driven by politics or personalities undermine progress and sap morale. Coherent goals, common materials and regular review — the approach APS is using now — build professional culture and raise achievement.

Recent elections have changed the political makeup of the APS board, but students are not partisan actors. They care about whether today’s lesson helps them read, write and do math. The evidence shows the current approach is working. Abandoning it now would risk squandering hard‑won momentum.

Progress in education is not a partisan trophy. It is a moral responsibility — owed to students, families and educators. APS has momentum. Our job is to protect it, strengthen it, and build on it so every classroom delivers on its promise.

Richard M. Romero is a former state senator, Albuquerque Public Schools assistant superintendent, teacher and principal.