What should we expect from Expect More Arizona?

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by David Safier
Talk about an aggressive roll out! I've seen articles about this group in the Republic, the Star and Education Weekly, as well as a press release. I imagine there's a whole lot more I've missed.

The group is Expect More Arizona, and its purpose is to . . . well, I'm not exactly sure what its purpose is. It's supposed to made education better in Arizona. In its own words, it is

a public-private partnership dedicated to creating a movement of Arizonans who value education as our state’s top priority and are actively engaged in strengthening the entire education continuum – from birth to career.  

Sounds good. It also has a $2 million war chest to get the word out. Sounds even better. But then comes the rest of the story.

Expect More Arizona is the result of the work of the Governor's P-20 Council, created by Executive Order in 2005.  The P-20 Council was established to improve and align Arizona’s education systems from early learning through postsecondary education, and ultimately create a pipeline of highly skilled students who graduate ready to compete, contribute and succeed in the 21st Century.

Understanding that a strong education system leads to the development of a more talented workforce and vibrant economy, the Council brought together the education sectors, business and community leaders, and elected officials to develop and implement recommendations to provide systemic improvements at all points in the educational spectrum.

It lists something like 70 supporting groups, including school districts, UA, the Department of Ed,the Office of the Governor, the Diamondbacks and the Suns. It also includes educational activist groups like Voices for Education.

So what can it accomplish if it has supporters all over the education spectrum? It can promote education in touchy-feely fliers and TV ads, so long as they don't get into touchy subjects like budgets and taxes. It can recommend more accountability and high standards, but not mention educational tax credits or vouchers. Or abstinence education. Or ELL education.

You know those Phillip Morris ads that are supposed to make you feel good about quitting smoking but carefully avoid anything that would make anyone actually stop? I fear this group's message may be similar. It will make you feel good about giving students the best possible education while avoiding anything that anyone could possibly object to.

Prove me wrong, Expect More Arizona. Please. Prove me wrong. I will be delighted to publish a retraction, an apology, and my sincere thanks for a job well done.