With the Albuquerque Public School Board election approaching on November 4, the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (GACC) has announced its support for four candidates: Danielle Gonzales, Courtney Jackson, Joshua Martinez, and David Ams.
Terri Cole, President and CEO of GACC, highlighted the significance of school district leadership that prioritizes student academic improvement. "Superintendent Dr. Gabriella Durán Blakey has made tremendous progress, working in tandem with the board majority, to ensure our district has a strategic plan tied to student improvement. She and Danielle and Courtney have instilled accountability in the system, and voters should support them so that work can continue," Cole said.
Paul Madrid, GACC Education BIG Chairman, also encouraged support for these candidates to maintain progress within the school district.
Danielle Gonzales is running as an incumbent for District 3, which covers Downtown, North Valley, Los Ranchos, and Corrales. Elected in 2021 and currently serving as board president, Gonzales has focused on improving outcomes for students across the district. Her background includes work as a teacher, policy expert, advocate, and nonprofit leader.
Courtney Jackson is seeking re-election in District 7, representing Far Northeast Heights including La Cueva and Eldorado High School. Also elected in 2021 and now board vice president, Jackson is a graduate of La Cueva High School and holds degrees from the University of New Mexico and its law school. She brings experience in law, business, and education to her role.
Joshua Martinez is running for District 5 on Albuquerque’s West Side. He serves as New Mexico Health Equity and Community Impact director for the American Diabetes Association and has been active in supporting families statewide. Martinez comes from a family of public educators and participates actively in his children’s school community.
David Ams is a candidate for District 6 covering ABQ Heights including Sandia and Manzano high schools as well as Four Hills and East Mountains. As a PTA president and scientist with a PhD in chemistry, Ams aims to ensure all students have access to quality education.
The APS Board oversees hiring the superintendent. The GACC noted that current superintendent Gabriella Durán Blakey is seen as reform-minded and student-focused but warned that leadership could change if their endorsed candidates do not win.
The Chamber also urged voters to support both the APS GO bond measure along with these four candidates in order to continue advancing the district’s goals.
