Board approves expansion of Albuquerque International High School to grades 9–12; district flags federal funding risk

The Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education voted Sept. 3 to expand Albuquerque International High School to serve grades 9 through 12. The motion passed by roll call after brief discussion about federal funding and contingency planning.

Board Member Crystal Tapia Romero moved approval of the expansion and Board Member Josefina Dominguez seconded. Deputy Superintendent of Operations Dr. Antonio Gonzalez and Chief Academic Officer Sherry Jett were listed as presenters; the meeting record notes that the school’s principal, Mr. Traeger, was in the audience.

Board Member Janelle Estorga asked whether anticipated federal funding cuts could pose barriers to sustaining the school’s design and quality. Dr. Gonzalez said the school is currently funded in part with federal funds and that cuts to those funds “could impact the school,” and that the district would need to provide operational funds to maintain current instructional design if federal support declined. “We have looked at it as a priority. And so, we do have contingency plans, but it, of course, would mean that the funds have to come from somewhere,” Dr. Gonzalez said. He said those decisions would be reflected in the district’s upcoming budget planning.

Board members indicated the district’s intent is to continue supporting the school. The board then voted by roll call and the motion carried unanimously.

Why it matters: Expanding Albuquerque International High School to full high‑school grades broadens the program’s reach and may require ongoing operational funding depending on federal grant availability. Board members asked district leaders whether contingency plans are ready if federal funds are reduced.

What’s next: District staff said budget tradeoffs would be considered during next year’s budget development; the board did not approve any additional funding at the Sept. 3 meeting.