What to know: First day of school at APS

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Many children in New Mexico are back in the classroom. It was the first day of class for Albuquerque Public Schools and Rio Rancho Public Schools.  

There were a few concerns this year, like having working air conditioning in the classroom and making sure there are enough bus drivers to take kids to and from school. 

School administrators say they’ve also heard concerns from parents about the new bell schedule at APS, but they believe in the long run the new bell times will be beneficial. 

The new bell times are only one part of the district’s five-year strategic plan to improve student learning. Superintendent Scott Elder says he hopes they stick to it after he steps down.

MORE:

• Earlier this week KOB 4 took a hard look at the state of New Mexico schools and how to rebuild them for success in our Back to School Special.
• APS students will have a longer school year and a new bell schedule. Also, all students are now eligible for free meals.
• If you need to buy school supplies, the tax-free weekend is running tardy. It will be this weekend from Aug. 4 to Aug. 6.
• Think New Mexico shared some ideas about how to get students back on track. Here are the changes they recommended.