Dr. Gabriella Durán Blakey

NMKC News:

ALBUQUERQUE — The Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education has announced that Dr. Gabriella Durán Blakey will serve as the next Superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools (APS).

The unanimous decision comes after an extensive nationwide search that drew interest from two-dozen qualified applicants.

“We look forward to supporting Superintendent Blakey in delivering the improved student outcomes promised in the APS Strategic Plan,” NewMexicoKidsCAN Executive Director Amanda Aragon said. “Turning Albuquerque Public Schools around will require bold, student-centered leadership. We trust Dr. Blakey will rise to the occasion.”

Dr. Blakey has worked in Albuquerque Public Schools for more than 20 years. With a salary of $295,000, her appointment comes with a two-year contract. Dr. Blakey will lead the implementation of the APS Strategic Plan: Emerging Stronger, with a primary focus on improving academic outcomes for the district’s 68,000 students. 

The APS Superintendent search process involved extensive community engagement, including community forums, surveys with more than 7,000 participants, and feedback from more than 450 written comments during the forums.

Dr. Durán Blakey will assume the role of Superintendent July 1, succeeding Superintendent Scott Elder, who completes his term June 30.