In a recent meeting of the Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education, officials highlighted the progress made since the adoption of four ambitious goals aimed at improving educational outcomes for all students. These goals, established 19 months ago in collaboration with the community, focus on enhancing proficiency in reading and math for historically underserved groups, including Native American, Black, economically disadvantaged students, English language learners, and students with disabilities.

The first goal emphasizes increasing reading proficiency by third grade, while the second aims to boost math proficiency by eighth grade. The third goal seeks to better prepare high school students for post-graduation success by increasing participation in advanced placement courses and industry certifications. Lastly, the fourth goal focuses on fostering essential life skills such as self-regulation, perseverance, and social awareness among students.

In addition to these goals, the board discussed the importance of \"guardrails,\" which are community-defined values that guide the administration's efforts. These include providing culturally relevant instruction, ensuring community involvement in educational decisions, and distributing resources equitably.

The board reaffirmed its commitment to equity and robust public education, emphasizing the need for supportive environments that foster a sense of belonging, particularly for vulnerable students. The meeting underscored the district's accountability in achieving these goals, reflecting a student outcomes-focused governance model that aims to enhance educational experiences across the board.