Press Releases

Before expected vote in the Senate, organizations urged legislators to reject HB 2867, which exploits legitimate concerns about bigotry to undermine critical protections for public school educators and the communities they serve.

As state lawmakers prepare to release a proposal that would cut educator pay raises and block reforms to Arizona’s bloated and scandal-plagued voucher program, the Arizona Education Association released new polling today showing that Arizona voters prefer the state’s existing Proposition 123 model, which allows school districts to provide raises for teachers and support staff, fund building maintenance, and support other educational needs with money from the state land trust.

Arizona Education Association (AEA) President Marisol Garcia sent a letter on behalf of more than 20,000 Arizona educators urging Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne and members of the State Board of Education to reject a proposal that would cut funding for school-based Career & Technical Education programs across Arizona.

Hours after President Trump issued an illegal Executive Order to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, Arizona Education Association President Marisol Garcia delivered a rousing speech to mobilize Arizonans to fight for public education and defend Arizona educators and students.

Arizona Education Association (AEA) President Marisol Garcia announced to members and staff today that Joaquin Rios was selected by the AEA Board of Directors to be the union's next executive director.

According to new projections from Governor Hobbs’ Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting, Arizona’s voucher program could cost the state as much as $943 million this year – leaving the state $319 million in the red.

Earlier today, Attorney General Kris Mayes officially warned families that under state law, private schools and vendors that accept vouchers can discriminate against students based on religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and learning abilities.

As reported yesterday by AZ Family, the roof recently collapsed at a West Valley elementary school, forcing the closure of the cafeteria just as the school year is beginning to get underway. Fortunately, no one was hurt. But the incident shows the urgent need for Arizona to invest in school facilities.

Arizona’s Joint Legislative Budget Committee just released a new analysis showing that state revenues have fallen 44% compared to this time last year, with revenues now projected to be $183 million less than initially forecast. 

As educators, it’s our responsibility to give our students the support they need to learn, grow and become their best selves. One part of that is using our students’ chosen names and preferred pronouns.