During the Albuquerque Board of Education meeting on November 4, a parent of a San Antonito Elementary student asked the board to order an independent investigation into the school’s handling of a reported incident. The parent alleged that the district failed to follow Title IX requirements and the APS student‑conduct policy.
Albuquerque Public Schools’ response
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) confirmed that its Equal Opportunity Services (EOS) office opened a Title IX investigation and that a third‑party investigator is now reviewing the matter. In a statement to KOAT, APS disputed the allegation of non‑compliance, saying, “We dispute the allegation. The proper protocols have been followed in this incident. APS EOS provides Title IX training annually to principals to avoid any non‑compliance issues; however, should something arise, we conduct a thorough investigation.”
Details of the parent’s complaint
The parent said he received an email from the school’s principal describing male students making contact with other students during recess transitions. Concerned about the potential impact on students, he presented board members with a packet of information and reiterated his request for an immediate investigation, describing the district’s actions as “willful non‑compliance” with Title IX and APS’s code of conduct policy.
Procedural steps and funding
APS explained that it routinely uses third‑party investigators for matters of this nature and that a purchase order has been opened to cover the investigator’s fees. The district emphasized that its EOS office conducts annual Title IX training for all principals to ensure compliance with federal anti‑discrimination law.
What Title IX means for schools
Title IX is a federal statute that prohibits sex‑based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Schools are required to investigate any alleged violations promptly and to take corrective action when necessary.
Community reaction
While the parent’s concerns reflect a broader interest in how schools protect students, APS officials stressed that the district’s established protocols are designed to safeguard all students and to address any alleged misconduct swiftly and fairly. The investigation’s findings will be shared with the board once the third‑party review is complete.
Local families and community members are encouraged to stay informed about the investigation’s progress through APS communications and future board meetings.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
