The first day of any legislative session is always filled with feelings of renewal, goodwill, optimism, and hope. Arizona’s Democrats and Republicans had it in abundance at the opening of the 2019/20 legislative session at the State Capital. However, both sides offered contrasting competing visions for moving the Grand Canyon State. The Republican vision, expressed … Read more
Article 11 of the State Constitution of Arizona deals with public education. Section six concerns higher education at the state’s public universities. It states “instruction” at state universities “shall (not should) be as free as possible.” Well, according to a new study from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Arizona “Public Servants” (Republicans) in … Read more
Red Rock Elementary in the Santa Cruz River Valley (in-between Phoenix and Tucson) is one of many examples of a school facility in urgent need of renovation and upgrades. Poor engineering and water drainage pipe construction have led to many building defects. These include: Cracks in the interior and exterior walling, especially in the expansion … Read more
A new school year has dawned and despite funding increases enacted by the State Legislature over the last two years, Arizona schools are still being appropriated at Pre 2008 recession levels. This is 2019. Schools should be funded according to the economics of 2019 not 11 years ago. Currently, Arizona is ranked 49th in the … Read more
Arizona Public Schools did receive a boost in funding in the state budget passed last week by the Arizona Legislature (with only Republican votes) and signed by Governor Ducey. Does this boost in funding fully satisfy all public school needs for the 2019/20 school year? No, it does not. Apparently, Republicans felt a close to … Read more