News You Can Use!

Meet the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers in APS!

Thank you to everyone who nominated a volunteer for the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers in APS Awards!  The winners were notified in early April and you can read all about their work on the APS website!  Be sure to also look for them on APS billboards throughout the community!  All nominees received a certificate from Superintendent Blakey in April.  This year's honorees include a high school senior, a lifelong educator and a team of volunteers at La Mesa Elementary School.

Whether they’re tutoring young readers, encouraging outdoor learning, or making connections to help families access essential resources, APS volunteers are positive role models who are a vital part of our school communities. Across Albuquerque Public Schools, more than 14,500 vetted volunteers give their time, energy, and heart to support students, staff and families. Their work doesn’t just make a difference—it makes our schools stronger.

“Volunteers help bridge gaps, boost learning, elevate school and district goals, and bring in a sense of community that benefits everyone,” said Vaisu Desai Bronk, manager of APS Volunteer Programs and Special Projects. “Their service allows schools to do more, reach further and dream bigger.”

In honor of National Volunteer Week, which was April 20-26, APS is proud to recognize the incredible efforts of ALL its volunteers. A select few, whose dedication and impact have truly stood out this school year, are being honored with Outstanding Volunteer awards.

The nominations poured in, and selecting the winners wasn’t easy—every story was inspiring. While we spotlight a few individuals today, we offer our heartfelt thanks to each and every volunteer who helps shape a brighter future for APS students every day.

We encourage you to highlight the contributions all of your volunteers have made to your school community through in-person recognitions, via newsletter, website, social media and other venues throughout the year!  

Looking for Community Volunteers, Donations or Event Marketing?  

Sign Up on the City of Albuquerque's Volunteer Website!

Consider registering your school or organization's Volunteering and Fundraising opportunities by visiting the City of Albuquerque's ONE Albuquerque Volunteers website and click the 'Looking for Volunteers' link.  Schools/organizations can create their own page with logos, pictures and the Volunteer Coordinator contact info. This page can also be used to market a specific event and request donations. Once you register, you will receive instructions on how to manage your profile and add/update volunteer opportunities.  For assistance with setting up your page, please contact Rachael Hernandez, Civic Engagement Coordinator at the City of Albuquerque at rmhernandez@cabq.gov 

**Remember to state that all volunteers must have a valid APS Supervised or Unsupervised Volunteer Clearance to volunteer in schools; to contact your school to determine which clearance is required for their Volunteer role; and that the City's Volunteer Clearance does not supercede the APS Supervised or Unsupervised Volunteer Clearances** 

Help Students Find Volunteer Opportunities and Track Hours Through City of Albuquerque's Volunteer Platform

To promote youth volunteerism and facilitate civic engagement, the City of Albuquerque has consolidated volunteer and nonprofit resources into a single, easy-to-use portal to find volunteer opportunities across the city and beyond. The One Albuquerque Volunteers Platform is particularly helpful for young people looking to track service hours for sports, student clubs, honors programs and college applications.

Check out the many exciting ways to volunteer with City of Albuquerque Departments, find opportunities with community partners, and log/verify service hours on https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com. If you would like to connect with the Office of Civic Engagement for a training or presentation for your students, please contact Nicholas Vottero 505.917.1567 or nvottero@cabq.gov