PHOENIX (AP) Arizona's top education official on Tuesday said sustainable, long-term funding is critical for public schools to make sure students thrive during and after the coronavirus pandemic.
Kathy Hoffman in June 2019.
During the pandemic, Arizona schools have faced unexpected expenses to keep students and staff safe, but the state continues to deny them the long-term funding they need, Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman said during her State of Education address Tuesday at a Senate Education Committee meeting.
Public schools are projected to lose up to $500 million because the state currently funds distance learning at a lower rate than in-person instruction, Hoffman said. The state’s enrollment stabilization grant program meant to address this issue fell short by $247 million. While schools are receiving federal relief funding, Hoffman said it s not enough to cover gaps in schools’ budgets.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman discussed funding, virtual learning and mental health in Arizona schools during her third annual State of Education address.
Check Out the Education Bills Making Their Way through the State Legislature
Home » Check Out the Education Bills Making Their Way through the State Legislature
There are many education bills making their way through the State Legislature this session.
Some are reintroduced holdover bills from last year that were not considered when the Capitol shut down due to the Coronavirus.
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Please click here to check on the education bills progressing through the State Senate Committee.
And here to review those being considered in the Arizona House.
Many of these proposals have generated bipartisan support.
For example, House Bill 2021, sponsored by Committee Chairperson Michelle Udall a bill designed to expand college dual credit opportunities for freshman and sophomore high school students has sailed through the committee with unanimous support.