The transition of leadership at Albuquerque Public Schools is now official.
Gabriella Durán Blakey, who had been the district’s acting superintendent since March, took over Monday as the head of an organization with 141 regular public schools, more than 70,000 students and a staff of more than 10,000.
“I’m honored to step into this position and to have the opportunity to reimagine the way we do things at APS,” Blakey said in a news release.
After a national search, in February the APS Board of Education tabbed Blakey as the new superintendent, replacing Scott Elder, whose retirement became official Sunday.
“The Board of Education heard loud and clear from our community that they want a superintendent who has the experience and know-how to improve student outcomes, who understands our community and culture, and who will listen to and prioritize community voice,” Board President Danielle Gonzales told City Desk ABQ Monday. “I am so proud that we have all of that and more in Dr. Blakey. We are excited about her leadership and ready to see her get to work to serve, challenge, and support our students.”
Shifting for better student outcomes
Blakey also launched an administrative reorganization that went into effect Monday.
She said the shift is designed to better position APS to meet the goals identified in its Emerging Stronger strategic plan: improving reading and math proficiency rates, preparing students for life after graduation, and equipping them with life skills needed for future success.
“I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to make that happen,” Blakey said.
As acting superintendent, APS says, she has visited more than a dozen schools to hear from staff and students about what the district is doing well and where it could improve.
She plans to host additional listening sessions in the coming weeks and months.
In an April conversation with CityDesk ABQ, Blakey said her priorities include students learning five new things in each grade, aligning APS’ goals to the strategic plan and building trust in the school system.
Read our story about Blakey here.
The rise of a former pupil
Prior to her latest promotion, Blakey worked at APS for more than 20 years, serving as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and associate superintendent. She most recently was the district’s chief operations officer. Blakey was also assistant superintendent for curriculum and professional development with Santa Fe Public Schools.
Blakey, who attended Sandia Base Elementary and Van Buren Middle School and graduated from Highland High School, is the 30th APS superintendent in the district’s 133 years.
“I want our schools to challenge and nurture students,” Blakey said Monday. “I want to work with families and the community to give children what they need to be successful in the classroom. Above all, when the time comes for our students to graduate, I want them to be ready and have the skills to succeed no matter what they choose to do after high school.”