During the recent Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) Board of Education meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the removal of ninth-grade health education and the district's relationship with the Council of Great City Schools (CGCS).

Several speakers criticized the board's decision to eliminate health education for ninth graders, arguing that it undermines student well-being and ignores the wishes of over 2,000 community members who supported its retention. Ron Muir, one of the speakers, emphasized that the skills taught in health education are crucial for navigating high school and preventing risky behaviors. He urged the board to reconsider its decision and restore health education as a graduation requirement.

Tony Watkins raised issues about the board's engagement with the CGCS, expressing concern over the lack of transparency and the perceived erosion of community input. He highlighted that the board's recent policies have restricted direct communication between board members and the public, which he believes disenfranchises constituents.

Other speakers echoed these sentiments, calling for a review of the contract with CGCS and advocating for more community involvement in decision-making processes. Janet Harmon criticized the financial resources allocated to CGCS, suggesting that funds would be better spent on local educational needs rather than external consultants.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among parents and community members regarding the board's governance model and its impact on student outcomes. Many attendees urged the board to prioritize direct communication with families and to ensure that decisions reflect the community's needs and values.

As the board moves forward, the discussions from this meeting highlight a critical moment for APS, as it navigates the balance between external guidance and local accountability. Community members are calling for a renewed focus on transparency and engagement to better serve the educational needs of Albuquerque's students.