Albuquerque – Albuquerque Federation of Classified Professionals (AFCP), AFT NM Local #4129 President Kathy Chavez released the following statement:

“Classified educators serving the students and families of the Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) are celebrating the passage of our strong collective bargaining agreement recently negotiated with APS.

“Passed unanimously last week by the Board of Education and passed with over 98% support from bargaining unit members, this contract secured strong language which benefits both classified educators and the students served in our community.

“Specifically, this contract ensures educational assistants will be trained in non-violent crisis intervention before being left alone with high needs students; compensation for job-required professional development for health assistants; better protocols for safety for students and drivers/attendants while transporting students to and from school related activities; better controls on the handling and administration of student medication; and stronger classroom coverage policies to minimize learning disruption.

“Additionally, it recognizes the essential and copious amount of additional work performed by classified educators throughout our school settings. From mentorship stipends, additional compensation for written and oral translation services, health office administration, and the prioritization of employees over contract labor during summer months, this ratified contract ensures APS employees are seen, recognized, and compensated for the work done on behalf of our students and the district.

“On behalf of AFCP, we want to thank every member who answered surveys, participated on the bargaining team, advocated for their rights during the contract process, and voted for this strong contract. This truly has demonstrated the power of classified educators when we stand together as one.”