Students and educators highlight AP, IB, ProStart and career programs during APS public forum

ALBUQUERQUE — Students, teachers and community partners used the Board of Education public forum on Aug. 20 to spotlight AP and IB progress, career-technical programs and Indigenous internship opportunities, and to ask the district for sustained funding and clearer access to career pathways.

“Manzano made me feel welcomed,” said Sofia Rios Duval, a freshman at Manzano High School, explaining how the school’s freshman academy and “jump start” orientation helped her feel connected. “The teachers also helped us feel very welcomed with games and activities.”

Several speakers described measurable gains at their schools. Patricia Sumrall, an AP U.S. history teacher at Rio Grande High School, said APUSH test-taking increased from 14 students to 29 over four years and that the average score rose from about 1.7 to 2.65, with about 65 percent scoring a 2 or higher. She asked the board to continue supporting AP teachers and exam funding.

Student speakers and program leaders described career-technical education programs that provide certificates and paid experience. David Crispin, a ProStart instructor at Highland High School, described national competition medals won by his students. Sebastian Reed and Naim Valdez, students in an ICAR/auto-body program at Highland, said the class offered paid work, life skills and a path into local shops. Scott Benavides, owner of Mr. B’s Paint and Body Shop, asked the district to remove IT “firewalls” that block industry software access and to restore trade-class funding.

Teachers and program leaders also highlighted expansion of Indigenous education, IB candidacy at Cleveland Middle School and the Indigenous Knowledge Keepers internship, which combines elective credit, credentials such as food-safety certificates, and capstone projects.

“I’m in the Indigenous Knowledge Keepers internship,” said Christie (first name given). “It’s not just a program. It’s a chance to grow in ways you might not expect.”

Rodney Prunty of United Way of North Central New Mexico endorsed the Academies of Albuquerque and said United Way will convene businesses, nonprofits and higher-education partners to help expand career-connected learning and internships across the district.

Speakers asked the board for practical supports: exam and certification fee relief, restored funding for trade classes, fewer scheduling barriers so all students can access dual credit and AP classes, and clearer pathways for students with disabilities to participate in hands-on CTE. Several students and teachers asked the district to publicize course and credential opportunities more widely so students and families can plan.

Public forum ran 45 minutes and included 21 speakers, the board secretary said. No formal board action occurs in public forum; comments were recorded and staff indicated they will follow up on several requests.