Albuquerque Public Schools: APS Outlines Spending Plan For COVID-Relief Funds

Press release from Albuquerque Public Schools:

October 22, 2021

The American Rescue Plan passed by Congress and signed by President Biden provides more than $122 billion nationwide to help schools recover from the pandemic. Albuquerque Public Schools' share is about $230 million.

The district's funding plan is tied directly to its five pillars:   

• Ensuring equity and access for all students and staff
• Supporting high-quality, equity-driven instruction for every student
• Supporting social and emotional learning
• Maintaining effective and efficient operations
• Engaging staff and community

The plan was submitted to the New Mexico Public Education Department, which manages the federal funding. Funding priorities set by the state include: 

• Closing the digital divide
• Accelerated instruction
• Supporting social and emotional needs
• Supporting the unique needs of students with disabilities and at-risk student

APS sought public input and meaningful stakeholder consultation on its spending plan, hosting several virtual town hall forums in the fall. The forums were attended by employees, families, and community members. Overall, participants indicated that they believed the district plan was on the right track.

This press release was produced by Albuquerque Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author’s own.