The Albuquerque Public Schools' Board of Education has four open seats coming up, but none of the incumbents plan a push for re-election.
"There's actually no parents with school-aged children on the school board. I believe parent input is vital but also professional experience is essential," said Julie Brenning, who is running for the District 7 seat, told KRQE.
Many of the board members have been serving for many years and believe it's time for them to step down in order to get a fresh perspective.
"I want to involve the community, parents' voice, and the leaders in the area," Brenning told the station. "It is essential that our school board is transparent in our decision-making. It's essential that we bring each other around a table to solve the problems together."
Dr. David Peercy, who served for 13 years, says getting board members with children would allow the board to get input directly from parents.
"I’m excited that the school board is going to have new blood, fresh faces. I believe we’re going to be able to bring some visionary ideas to the table,” said Crystal Tapia-Romero, who is also a former teacher and is running for the District 5 seat. "Having board members with children would allow the board to find new ways to improve the school system, especially in the aftermath of a pandemic that resulted in a huge decline in the mental well-being of students."