KANW was founded in 1950 by Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent John Milne, who applied to the Federal Communications Commission in 1949 for a license to construct and operate an FM station to serve the Albuquerque Public Schools. The idea was to create a radio station that would provide classroom instructional programming for students. KANW began operating from a small studio on the third floor of the old Albuquerque High School in 1951, making it the first FM station in the state of New Mexico. Today, KANW is still owned and operated by Albuquerque Public Schools as a non-profit, non-commercial educational radio station.KANW covers a wide range of content, including local and national news, educational programming, and a unique focus on New Mexico music. The station is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, but serves a large portion of north central New Mexico. As an NPR affiliate, KANW broadcasts popular programs like Morning Edition and Fresh Air, while also producing local content that reflects the culture and interests of its community. The station has expanded its reach over the years, now operating several repeater stations across the state.**One interesting fact**: KANW's Saturday morning New Mexico Music and dedications program, which started in 1973, has become one of the most consistently listened to radio programs in New Mexico history, showcasing local artists and maintaining the highest ratings of all KANW's programs.