Middle schools to get APS remodeling funds next

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) Albuquerque Public Schoolssays parents can expect construction to shift towards middle schools in the near future. The district cut the ribbon on one of its latest construction projects Tuesday, holding an open house at Dolores Gonzales Elementary near the Rio Grande Zoo. Some of the highlights include new classrooms, a new playground, a new a music room and a soon to be completed remodeled cafeteria.

Teachers say the work means a lot to them and the kids.

They feel so special, they feel so fortunate and lucky to be in this place, said Valerie Barrera a kindergarten teacher at Dolores Gonzales Elementary School.

While Delores Gonzales Elementary has been on the docket for a major revamp for years, the district says there are a lot of other schools that need work, including many middle schools.

It never stops, said Kizito Wijenje, executive director for Albuquerque Public Schools Capital Master Plan program.

Wijenje says for about the last six years, APS has put hundreds of millions of dollars into revamping high schools and building new schools. But with enrollment leveling off, the district says its shift its focus.

The emphasis is rejuvenating our older schools, starting with our high schools, our older schools on average are 50 to 60 years old, said Wijenje.

In the next six months, APS says it will break ground on remodeling at Rio Grande High in the South Valley, West Mesa High near Coors and Interstate 40, and Valley High School in the North Valley.The projects are top priority according to the districts current five-year Capital Master Plan which ends in 2016. Its not just the high school though.

>>READ: Albuquerque Public Schools November 2014 construction report.

We also will be looking into rebuilding most of the middle schools, said Wijenje.

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Middle schools to get APS remodeling funds next