Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) announced that voters chose three new members for the APS Board of Education, simultaneously approving a mill levy anticipated to generate millions for maintenance and other school needs. The mill levy results remain unofficial until they are certified by the state canvassing board, according to a press release by APS.
The APS mill levy secured approval by a significant 2-1 margin, receiving the backing of nearly 67 percent of voters. The successful measure is expected to generate approximately $264.7 million over the span of six years, equivalent to an annual amount of around $44 million, beginning in the tax year 2025. The primary focus of these funds will be on security upgrades and maintenance, with a portion allocated to support charter schools. This represents the continuation of an existing tax rather than the imposition of a new one, said APS in a press release.
“I want to thank everyone at APS who helped get the word out about the importance of this mill levy, including Capital Master Plan Executive Director Kizito Wijenje, who spearheaded the effort, and the Fine Arts Department for the wonderful videos they produced showing how important this money is to our students,” said Elder, as stated in an APS press release.
Janelle Astorga secured victory in the District 1 race with 48.5 percent of the vote, replacing Yolanda Montoya-Cordova. Ronalda K. Tome triumphed in District 2, defeating incumbent Peggy Muller-Aragón by 255 votes while Heather Benavidez won District 4 with an overwhelming majority at 82.4 percent succeeding Barbara Petersen, according to an APS press release.
“I look forward to working with them in the coming months as we continue with our efforts to improve outcomes for all our students,” Elder expressed in another APS press release.
