Review of APS Classrooms Finds Lack of Rigor, Engagemetn

Experts studying Albuquerque Public Schools as part of the district’s strategic planning process observed a pervasive lack of rigor across the 189 classrooms they observed.

That was one of the more sobering findings released to the Board of Education this week in Attuned Education Partners’ “Organization Diagnostic” of APS.

Board member Danielle Gonzales calls on school leaders to treat this as the wake-up call it is. 

APS Board votes to approve 5-year goals

This is huge. NOW, we have something to align the budget to, to base the superintendent's evaluation on, and to guide every decision in the district. This will allow us to prioritize students and student learning and help drive toward much-needed improvement. On January 25th, the board will consider and vote on the 4th and final goal, related to school climate and SEL. 

Board Members Gonzales and Jackson pen Op-Ed calling for more collaboration, parent support

As the only members of the board with school-aged children, we know there is value to a policy that clearly states parents/guardians have rights in our education system. Right now, it is overwhelming and cumbersome for families to navigate the system which still, too often, misses the mark for our low-income, language minority and families of color. Our schools can be good at putting up barriers, and this policy is a way to bring those down. Ultimately, it is about collaborative relationships, strengthening the home-to-school connection and respecting historically marginalized families, all while putting student safety and success first.

APS Board tables parent rights policy for further community input

The APS Board voted to table the proposed new Parent Rights and Responsibilities policy to allow time for further family, student, staff and community input. Board Member Danielle Gonzales will work with APS staff and community members to craft a process to ensure diverse voices and perspectives are heard, that student rights are protected, and that parents have what they need to be effective advocates for their students. 

Gonzales on parent rights policy

Danielle Gonzales joined All Things Considered and Morning Edition on KUNM to discuss the proposed new Parent Rights and Responsibilities policy, under consideration during the July 7 Policy Committee meeting. 

Gonzales speaks to KOAT about proposed parents rights policy

A new policy on parent rights was to be considered during the June 6 APS Policy Committee. Board Member Danielle Gonzales spoke to KOAT news to provide additional background, context, and assurances that the safety and privacy of LGBTQ+ students would be protected. 

APS Board approves budget in divided vote

Gonzales voted against the proposed APS budget, stating: “We say that we care about art, we say that we care about music, we say that we care about leadership and JROTC and choir and band. And yet those are the things that are cut. ”

Budgets are statements of our values - Gonzales calls for APS budget that prioritizes equity

APS officials provided more details behind the $1.9B proposed budget, but still insufficient information to know whether, and how, low-income, English learner, students with disability and other at-risk students will be affected by the changes. While the budget passed on a 4-3 vote, it is clear that future processes need to prioritize equity, transparency and change. 

Gonzales seeks budget information in effort to prioritize equity

If we're going to say we prioritize equity, then we need to be transparent about how the budget serves kids of color, low-income, special education and English learner students. Budgets are statements of values and the role of the board is to establish those values and vision, and hold the district accountable for implementing, not serve as a rubber stamp. Read more from the Albuquerque Journal about the May 25 decision to delay APS budget approval. 

Gonzales sworn in, speaks about priorities for the Board

Danielle Gonzales, was took the oath of office and was officially sworn in to serve on the APS board, along with four other newly elected board members. Together the 7 member will serve as the first all-woman board.

Gonzales in Education Post - How we can ensure Latino students feel a sense of belonging in school

In a featured column in the Education Post, Danielle shares her own story, provides research, and guidance on what we can do to help make sure every Latino student feels a sense of belonging in school all year long. 

Danielle Gonzales earns endorsement of The Albuquerque Journal

Danielle rises above a crowded field of four candidates to earn the endorsement of the Albuquerque Journal. The editorial board notes Danielle's NM roots, personal story, and education policy expertise in making the endorsement. 

Danielle Gonzales featured in ABQ Journal Profile on District 3 Race

On Friday, October 8, the Albuquerque Journal published an article describing the dynamics of the race and comparing the four candidates. Danielle Gonzales stands our for being an APS graduate herself, former teacher, parent to school-age kids, and a non-profit leader. In fact, the nonprofit that Danielle leads is focused on supporting large districts to help them improve. Danielle understands K-12 policy, funding and budgets and district leadership strategies - this makes her stand above the field. 

Gonzales stands out amongst District 3 Candidates in The Paper's Questionnaire

The Paper, Albuquerque's new independent paper asked all candidates to explain why they are running for office and explain solutions to issues in our city in their own words. Danielle offered up solutions, evidence and vision.

Albuquerque Journal publishes Danielle's responses to their candidate questionnaire

The Albuquerque Journal is covering our local election, starting by posting responses from all candidates to their questionnaire. Read Danielle's answers to learn more about her background and vision for APS/

Danielle Gonzales receives two key endorsements from ABQ business community

The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce and NAIOP, the association of commercial real estate developers announce their support for Danielle Gonzales for the District 3 School Board Seat. “The business community is certainly hoping that we elect school board members who will set meaningful academic goals for the district, ensure education dollars are spent in the classroom, and put student learning first in their decision-making,” said Chamber President and CEO Terri Cole.

All four incumbents for open APS school board seats not seeking re-election

Danielle was featured on KRQE News to discuss the fact that none of the incumbents are running for reelection and what she will bring to the board when elected. 

Danielle Gonzales Calls on Policymakers to Fuel an Equitable Recovery with Affordable Child Care

In a guest editorial published by the Alliance for Early Success, Danielle makes the case for making child care fair and accessible for all, in order to fuel our economic recovery.

Albuquerque Public Schools Alumna, Parent Launches Bid for Board

August 24, 2021 For Immediate Release

Contact: Danielle Gonzales Cell: 505-225-3426

Albuquerque Public Schools Alumna, Parent Launches Bid for Board

 Danielle Gonzales Files for APS District 3 Seat

Today, Danielle M. Gonzales filed paperwork with the Bernalillo County Clerk to formally declare her candidacy for the Albuquerque Public Schools Board, for District 3. Gonzales, a native New Mexican and graduate of Valley High School, has worked for over 20 years in education as a teacher, advocate, funder and education policy expert. She currently co-leads the Aspen Institute’s Education & Society Program, a national education non-profit focused on improving education for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds. 

"I was lucky to receive an amazing APS education,” Gonzales said, “but I also witnessed peers and family struggle. Success in school and in life shouldn't be left to chance. We need to build an education system that enables everyone to thrive, especially now, as our community works to recover from COVID and pandemic-related stressors."

Gonzales, a parent of three children and guardian to her niece (ages 5, 8, 11, and 12) has the unique perspective and experience to help lead the district toward recovery and renewal.  

“Our community and our students have experienced a year like no other. The November 2 election provides an opportunity for Albuquerqueans to bring new leadership to the APS Board.” Gonzales said. “I have school-aged children, leadership and board governance experience, deep knowledge of urban district leadership strategies, a robust record of service and the expertise we need to rise up to this moment.” 

Gonzales began her career as a fourth grade teacher, led a national advocacy campaign for pre-k for all, made grants to state-based education organizations at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and now works to support urban districts’ improvement efforts. She has been published in a variety of education outlets and is a national expert in education equity and education policy. 

Gonzales is a recipient of the prestigious Truman Scholarship and an alumna of several fellowships and programs. Her record of service to the community includes having served on multiple boards, including Hispanics in Philanthropy (HIP) and Planned Parenthood. She currently serves as the Chair of the Board for Transforming Education, a national non-profit focused on anti-racist whole child development, as the Treasurer of the New Mexico Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Foundation, and as a coach and consultant on equity for the NM Public Education Department. Gonzales is an active member of Moms Demand Action, MomsRising, Education Leaders of Color (EdLOC), and Latinos for Education.  

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www.gonzalesforaps.com  

Candidate Headshot