Growing up in Albuquerque’s Southeast Heights as the daughter of a nurse and educator, she has dedicated more than 20 years to APS, serving in various leadership roles including acting Superintendent, Chief Operations Officer, and Associate Superintendent. Her career began as a social studies and English Language Learner teacher at Highland High and Albuquerque Evening School, before advancing to assistant principal and principal positions.

During her tenure, Dr. Blakey has made significant contributions to the district, particularly during the pandemic where she led COVID-19 safety initiatives, coordinated the distribution of over a million meals, and played a key role in reopening all 143 APS schools. She recently helped develop the Emerging Stronger strategic plan, focusing on improving literacy, math proficiency, and post-secondary readiness. Her experience also includes serving as assistant superintendent for curriculum and professional development at Santa Fe Public Schools and founding the Health Leadership High School. Dr. Blakey holds a doctorate in education and Master of Arts in educational leadership from the University of New Mexico, and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education from New Mexico State University. Beyond her educational leadership, she is an accomplished violinist with the Symphony Orchestra of Albuquerque and serves on several community boards, including Explora Children’s Science Museum and United Way of Central New Mexico.