Albuquerque Public Schools (APS)

SHIFT—Systems, Humans, and Interconnected Futures Together—is a districtwide, place-based outdoor learning program designed around New Mexico state-developed curriculum and Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) priorities. The program will serve all APS 6th-grade students (approximately 5,000 annually), addressing a critical gap in the district’s continuum of Signature Academic Field Experiences (SAFEs) during the transition to middle school. Program Goals The primary goals of SHIFT are to: Expand equitable access to outdoor recreation and high-quality outdoor learning experiences for all APS students. Build environmental and climate literacy, with a focus on systems thinking and human–environment interactions. Strengthen student connection to place by fostering understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of New Mexico’s public lands. Program Design Students engage in a coherent sequence of learning experiences that include standards-aligned pre- and post-visit classroom lessons, cost-neutral on-campus outdoor learning, and a full-day, in-park field experience at Valles Caldera National Preserve, which serves as the anchor of the program. Instruction integrates science, social studies, math, and literacy through place-based inquiry, data collection, observation, and reflection. Content is co-designed and co-delivered by APS educators and National Park Service (NPS) professionals, with support from the APS Outdoor Learning Team, APS Indian Education, and academic partners such as Dr. Sandra Brantley (University of New Mexico). This collaborative model ensures cultural relevance, academic rigor, and alignment with district and state priorities. Why Valles Caldera? Valles Caldera National Preserve is an 89,000-acre landscape near Albuquerque and the largest national park unit closest to the city. As a globally significant volcanic caldera that contributed to the confirmation of plate tectonics, it provides exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary learning in geology, ecology, water systems, land management, and cultural history. Anchoring SHIFT at Valles Caldera expands the geographic scope of APS SAFEs across New Mexico and strengthens the district’s K–8 experiential learning continuum, helping students build a lasting connection to local and regional places. In the past year, Valles Caldera reached 4,161 school-aged students, including 1,353 APS 4th graders through in-class programs; however, most in-park field trips served students from nearby districts. SHIFT significantly expands access for APS students—particularly those from Title I schools and communities historically underrepresented in outdoor recreation. Student Experience and Access During their visit, students participate in guided, hands-on activities such as interactive hikes, ecosystem investigations, and land-use studies led by park educators and land managers. All transportation, instruction, and materials are provided at no cost to schools or families. Transportation is coordinated centrally through Sanchez Bus Company, removing a major participation barrier. SHIFT aims to increase student confidence in outdoor settings, deepen understanding of environmental systems and climate impacts, and foster stewardship of New Mexico’s public lands. Programming occurs during the school year, with on-campus components at APS middle schools and field experiences at Valles Caldera National Preserve in Sandoval County.