Press Releases

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.

There’s a lot to like in this budget–and one major disappointment.

Yesterday evening, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed SB1331, which would have forced school boards to allow parents with concealed carry permits to bring their guns on to campuses. She also vetoed HB2332, which would have made ineffective, NRA-sponsored gun safety classes mandatory for Arizona middle and high school students. 

Our 2023 Educators' Budget highlights the investments needed to address Arizona's educator retention crisis.