The Fight to Improve Public Education in Arizona

In a bid to address the state’s low ranking in public school education, Democratic candidates are rallying to take control of the legislature in Arizona.

A recent roundtable discussion featuring five candidates highlighted the Democratic Party’s commitment to improving public education in Arizona, where the state consistently ranks poorly in national education assessments.

Last week, Consumer Affairs ranked Arizona at a dismal 51st place in “Best States for Public Education 2024,” citing inadequate per-pupil funding and high class sizes as major concerns.

With the hope of shifting the balance of power, Democrats are fielding a group of pro-public-school candidates aiming to secure a Democratic majority in the state legislature for the first time in decades. The current margin for Republicans is just two seats in each chamber.

“We are working tirelessly to make that happen,” said Senator Christine Marsh (D), who is seeking re-election in a competitive district in north Phoenix.

Meet the Candidates

The candidates who participated in the roundtable discussion include:

• Retired English teacher and librarian Judy Schweibert, running for re-election in the AZ Senate in Legislative District 2.
• 40-year educator Keith Seaman, competing for a seat in the AZ House in Legislative District 16.
• Music teacher Stacey Seaman, running for the AZ Senate in Legislative District 16.
• Madison Elementary School Board President Karen Gresham, vying for a seat in the AZ House in Legislative District 4.

“Public schools must become the priority they deserve to be,” stated Schweibert during the discussion.

Challenges in Public Education

Despite recent increases in per-pupil spending in Arizona, the state has failed to keep up with national standards. The lack of resources hits rural schools the hardest, leading to difficulties in hiring and retaining qualified staff.

Public schools are also facing rising healthcare and pension costs, making it more challenging to provide quality education. Technology requirements, employee benefits, and special needs accommodations are adding to the financial burden of running schools.

During the roundtable, candidates shared stories of sacrifices made by districts to cover essential costs, highlighting the need for adequate funding in public education.

Debate over Teacher Salaries

One contentious education bill sponsored by Republican legislator Matt Gress, which proposed salary increases for teachers, has become a focal point of the campaign. Democrats have raised concerns about the bill’s lack of provisions for other school positions and its potential impact on staffing levels.

Candidates pledge to prioritize teacher pay increases while ensuring that all school staff members are adequately compensated, emphasizing the importance of fair and equitable funding for education.

Decision 2024

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