Parent raises FAPE violation concerns at Albuquerque Public Schools Board meeting

The Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education held a meeting on April 16, 2025, where significant discussions centered around student outcomes and governance evaluation. A key point raised during the public forum involved a parent's concern regarding a potential violation of the Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for their child, who has an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The parent criticized the grading method used in a class project, which relied solely on peer assessment, arguing that students are not adequately trained to evaluate each other's work. This issue highlights ongoing concerns about the adequacy of support for students with special needs within the district.

Following the public comments, the board moved to discuss the adoption of the Student Outcomes Focused Governance (SOFG) self-evaluation for the third year. The board introduced Sendhil Revelari, a new SOFG coach, who emphasized the importance of aligning governance practices with student outcomes. The board members individually completed a self-evaluation, revealing a range of scores across various competencies, with a total score of 58 points for the quarter.

During the evaluation discussion, board members expressed differing views on their performance, particularly regarding community engagement and the clarity of goals. Some members felt that the board had not effectively communicated with the community, leading to a disconnect between the board's goals and public understanding. This sentiment was echoed by several members who rated their performance lower, citing a need for improved community involvement in decision-making processes.

The board ultimately agreed on a goal of 75 points for the next quarter, aiming to enhance their monitoring practices and community engagement efforts. This goal reflects a commitment to continuous improvement in governance and student outcomes, as the board seeks to address the concerns raised during the meeting and foster a more inclusive environment for all stakeholders.