After thorough review of the candidates’ APS candidate surveys and the APS candidate forum, we chose to endorse these candidates in each of the four districts up for election. These candidates are aligned with our four guiding principles: Excellence, Options, Transparency and Innovation. We believe that the following Education Champions will bring necessary change to Albuquerque Public Schools to ensure that every child has access to an education that prepares them to be the future leaders our city and state need.
EDUCATION CHAMPIONS
Danielle Gonzales
Danielle Gonzales has extensive experience working with some of the largest urban districts in the country in her role at the Aspen Institute, which means she is well prepared to put Albuquerque Public Schools on a path to improvement and provide better outcomes for our students. In addition to her educational expertise, she is a former educator and a parent of four school-age kids. She is a graduate of district 3’s Valley High School. In combining her local and national experiences, Danielle can help bring needed change to the Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education.
Crystal Tapia-Romero
Crystal Tapia-Romero is a proven early childhood educator. As the owner of a five-star rated early childhood center, Crystal understands the importance of strong educational programming and operating a business successfully. She continues to expand her impact on early childhood education by serving as the policy chair for the New Mexico Childcare & Education Association and sits on the Early Learning Advisory Council to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Not only does Crystal understand education, but she is deeply committed to her community as she is a product of District 5 schools and a proud graduate of West Mesa High School. Crystal’s children are also graduates of Albuquerque Public Schools.
Art Carrasco
Art Carrasco is a small business owner and most importantly, a father. Art hopes to bring a new era of transparency to the Albuquerque Public Schools board of education, especially related to the district’s $1.8 billion budget. Like many residents of our city, Art has become frustrated at the continued mismanagement of the budget. In addition to improving the financial operations of the district, Art is committed to working to implement a strategic plan for the district that is rooted in improved student outcomes. Art is a native New Mexican, a graduate of the University of New Mexico and the father of two school aged children.
Courtney Jackson
Courtney Jackson is a committed community volunteer and mother to two Albuquerque Public Schools students. Courtney dedicates herself to her community through her service on the Albuquerque Public Schools Education Foundation. She is a Girl Scout Troop leader, two-time PTA president, current member of PTA, past president for the Junior League of Albuquerque and active volunteer in our Albuquerque community. Courtney is steadfastly dedicated to ensuring our students get what they need to succeed. She is a graduate of La Cueva High School, UNM and UNM Law and brings with her experience in the corporate sector. She is eager to bring change to Albuquerque Public Schools and ensure the voices of parents are heard.
