AZ Superintendent Diane Douglas proposes plan to fund AZ public schools

AZ Kids Can’t Wait is a proposal announced by Arizona Superintendent Diana Douglas, that would give public schools in Arizona $260 million towards changes and improvements.

According to Douglas, the proposal would boost teacher salaries, increase rural transportation and capital funding needs.

Superintendent of the Yuma Elementary School District 1, James Sheldahl, said the school district is encouraged by the plan.

“This is really [the] boldest plan that we have heard from the state superintendent and what I would say is delivered with the most conviction.”

Along with these changes, the plan aims to address teacher recruitment spending as well as improving classroom resources.

Sheldahl said the plan to invest in teacher recruitment is an essential element for public school growth.

“When you can retain those great teachers and you can attract quality young professionals into the profession, that’s better for kids,” Sheldahl said. “So every year that we put that off is another year that another group of kids exists the system, and another group of kids enters the system. And the longer we make them wait, the greater the impact of the future of our state.”

Although Sheldahl said he was skeptical about Douglas’ motives when she assumed office, he is now glad to see her act upon the needs of Arizona public schools.

“There was some skepticism in the public school environment about superintendent Douglas when she was elected,” Sheldahl said. “[So] it is very encouraging to hear that she went on her listening tour […] reflecting what people told her.”

JAMES SHELDAHL

SUPERINTENDENT, YUMA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1″This is really [the] boldest plan that we have heard from the state superintendent and what I would say is delivered with the most conviction.”

“When you can retain those great teachers and you can attract quality young professionals into the profession, that’s better for kids. So every year that we put that off is another year that another group of kids exists the system, and another group of kids enters the system. And the longer we make them wait, the greater the impact of the future of our state.”