APS focuses on keeping students safe this school year
The district is expanding security efforts at schools and athletic events while strengthening coordination with Albuquerque police.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Albuquerque Public Schools are implementing new safety measures this year, including weapon detection systems at football and soccer stadiums.
Last school year, several firearms were discovered on APS campuses. On a single day at the start of the year, two guns were found at Albuquerque High, two at West Mesa High, and one off-campus near Del Norte High.
Officials said eight schools will have a clear bag policy this year. The district stated that clear backpacks are not the sole solution for safety, as each school has its own measures tailored to its specific needs. APS has also improved coordination with Albuquerque police by gaining real-time access to their crime center for proactive monitoring and emergency response.
“I will say that last year we were able to see a reduction in weapons on campus, which was a positive step forward. But any weapon on campus is unacceptable. The reality is we are working to embrace a culture where each one of our students feels a strong sense of belonging, a sense of safety in their school,” said Dr. Antonio Gonzales, APS deputy superintendent of operations.
APS leaders also said that adding weapon detection systems at schools is an option under consideration.
