Albuquerque Schools Ignite STEM Revolution for K-12 Students

Albuquerque Public Schools launched an ambitious expansion of STEM and STEAM programs in the 2025-2026 school year, integrating coding, robotics and engineering into K-12 curricula at multiple sites. The **Engineering the Future** pathway spans Mission Avenue Elementary, Garfield STEM Magnet and Community School, and Valley High School, offering hands-on labs for innovation. Superintendent Gabriela Duran Blakey highlighted these developments at a recent Outcomes Coffee event, announcing new career and specialty pathways including a K-12 environmental science track and an IB feeder at Cleveland Middle School.

Edward Gonzales Elementary unveiled a cutting-edge STEM lab this year, broadening access for young learners in Albuquerque's South Valley. At Cleveland Middle School, students launched high-altitude solar balloons during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, showcasing practical applications of science and tech. Polk Middle School's **STF-Sustaining the Future** magnet, led by Coordinator Jose Archuleta and Coach Tracey Taylor, emphasizes sustainability, while Rio Grande High School's program builds on these foundations for older students.

Manzano Mesa Elementary weaves STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math—into daily lessons using NGSS standards and Code.org for free coding activities. APS stresses that robust STEM education extends beyond magnets; any school may offer interactive labs via the Office of Innovation at (505) 880-3753. With New Mexico's Sandia Labs and growing tech sector demanding skilled workers, these initiatives position APS students for economic mobility in the state.