Less than a month remains until the November 4 election, and the Albuquerque Public School Board race is gaining momentum. The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors has endorsed four candidates: Danielle Gonzales, Courtney Jackson, Joshua Martinez, and David Ams.
Terri Cole, President and CEO of the Chamber, highlighted the significance of having school district leadership focused on 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, Chairman of GACC Education BIG, also urged support for these candidates to maintain progress within the school district.
Danielle Gonzales is running as an incumbent for District 3, which includes Downtown and North Valley areas. Elected in 2021, she currently serves as board president. Gonzales is an Albuquerque Public Schools graduate who has dedicated her career to advancing equity in education.
Courtney Jackson seeks re-election in District 7 covering Far Northeast Heights. Also elected in 2021, she serves as board vice president. Jackson is a New Mexico native with a background in law and business education.
Joshua Martinez is campaigning for District 5 on Albuquerque's West Side. He works as the New Mexico Health Equity and Community Impact director for the American Diabetes Association. His campaign focuses on fresh leadership for the APS Board.
David Ams is running for District 6 encompassing ABQ Heights. As a PTA president and scientist, he aims to ensure access to quality education for all students.
The APS Board hires the superintendent, currently led by reform-minded Gabriella Durán Blakey. The Chamber encourages voters to support both the APS GO bond measure and these candidates to sustain district progress.
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