BEING A
GOOD RELATIVE
Being a Good Relative is a multi-year, collaborative initiative between Albuquerque Public Schools (APS), One Generation Fund, NACA Inspired Schools Network (NISN), Americans for Indian Opportunity (AIO), and Keres Children’s Learning Center (KCLC). These organizations are partnering to create opportunities for students to engage in Indigenized learning experiences focused on holistic well-being and life success. It fosters a supportive community within APS, Albuquerque, and the surrounding areas.
BEING A GOOD RELATIVE
Four Pillars
Pillar 1
Enhancing reciprocity, empowerment and learning
Pillar 2
Indigenous language and culture preservation
Pillar 3
Relevant real-world learning experiences
Pillar 4
Expanding college and career possibilities
Watch APS Superintendent Dr. Gabriella Blakey announce the Being A Good Relative initiative at the 2024 Urban Indigenous Education Summit. *Comments begin at 41:50
Building Pathways, Honoring Futures, and Sustaining Culture: The State of Native Education in Albuquerque Public Schools
About the Report
Despite the struggles of living in an urban location, many Native people have built cohesive and collaborative communities in the metropolitan area of Albuquerque over the past few decades. Moving primarily for work, health care, and educational opportunities, many Native people have chosen to remain in the city, finding connection and alliance among each other even where their tribal backgrounds differ.
The strengths of the urban community are reflective of their core values, beliefs, philosophies, and worldviews - community-minded; connected to culture, language, land, and identity; and focused on ensuring their students receive educational opportunities so they are successful in school and in life.
The persistence, strengths, and hopes of the urban Native community will continue to bring light to the challenges and needs of Albuquerque’s Native citizens, while also ensuring they remain grounded in tribal core values and worldviews. This report is the culmination of the work of education stakeholders - including district leadership, and Indigenous-led nonprofits working together in partnership to ensure Native students are seen, their voices are heard, and that their unique needs are met.
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