Open letter to the Kirtland community Published Feb. 3, 2012 By Col. John C. Kubinec 377th Air Base Wing commander KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- As many of you know, the New Mexico Public Education Department recently released the results of its new school grading system. While the merits of this grading system can, and will, be debated by many, the results are nonetheless troubling for many parents and educators alike. In particular, many of you have expressed your justifiable concern over the "F" grade received by the on-base elementary school, Sandia Base Elementary. I want to assure you that Team Kirtland leadership shares this concern and is committed to working with Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) to be part of the solution. In the coming days we will meet with the APS Superintendent and key community leaders to discuss how we, as a team, can address this challenge and work to improve Sandia Base Elementary together. I'm sure the professionals at Sandia Base Elementary are as disappointed in the grade as we are, and are doing all they can to continue to improve the quality of education for our children. You know these professionals better than I do and know how dedicated they are ... we need to ask "how can we help." That's what base leadership will be doing and I applaud APS for agreeing to partner with us to this end. I will strive to keep you informed of our progress and will be calling on you to be part of the way forward. I am constantly amazed by all members of Team Kirtland and I continue to pledge my support to your missions and your families.