Arizona’s Students are in a Race for the Best Jobs and Quality of Life. Don’t Let Them Fall Behind.

The success of Arizona and its students in competing in a knowledge-based global economy is dependent upon the quality of education in our state. Although there are many successes in Arizona, our students are falling behind their national and international peers in academic performance, high school graduation rates and postsecondary completion.

Strengthening education in our state requires cooperation and leadership at all levels of our statewide community.  As a policymaker, you have the ability to make education the priority it should be in Arizona.  Your leadership in crafting policies and dedicating resources will contribute to the success of our students and better position Arizona to attract the type of businesses and workforce talent that will provide greater economic rewards statewide.

Regardless of where you stand on Arizona’s academic performance or investment in education, there’s no question that we need to do everything possible to ensure our students are graduating with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete, contribute and succeed in the 21st Century.

Here are five ways you can help make strengthen education in Arizona:
 
Stay Informed about Education in Arizona – There are many perspectives about the current issues and opportunities related to education in Arizona today.  Take time to understand the various viewpoints, make informed decisions, and keep the best interests of Arizona students in the forefront.  Our studentws must be able to compete, contribute, and succeed in Arizona and the 21st Century.  

Push for Increased Standards and Performance – In order to keep up with their national and international peers, Arizona’s students must be exposed to more rigorous and more relevant curriculum. We must challenge them to meet increased achievement standards, graduate high school and go on to succeed in postsecondary education.  You are an important force in moving Arizona in this direction.

Support Programs and Policies Benefitting Education – As new education-related programs and policies are introduced for your consideration, ask yourself if they are in the best interest of Arizona’s students and their long-term success.  Support those that help raise the bar and move Arizona students closer to being prepared to succeed in postsecondary education, the workforce and life, including the P-20 Council Recommendations.

Protect and Support Increased Investment in Education – Arizona is ranked 49th in the nation for per student investment in K-12 education.  Protect our current education budget and support increased investment in the entire education continuum—Early Learning, K-12 and Postsecondary.   

Join the Expect More Arizona Movement – Lending your voice and leadership in support of education can be a powerful influence in our state.  By Signing Up, you are pledging your support of making education the top priority in Arizona. You also receive ongoing communication from Expect More Arizona to help you stay informed about current trends and issues that affect education within our state and across the nation.