Where AZ superintendent candidates stand on key education issues

July 14, 2026 - 07:45

With the primary election approaching, the four candidates vying to become Arizona's next Superintendent of Public Instruction are laying out their positions on the most pressing issues facing the state's schools. In a series of recent forums, the hopefuls answered direct questions from parents on school safety, the future of Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs), and the ongoing debate over education funding.

On school safety, the candidates offered differing approaches. Some emphasized increased funding for school resource officers and physical security upgrades, while others argued for a broader focus on mental health resources and conflict resolution programs. The discussion highlighted a growing consensus that safety extends beyond just preventing violence to include the emotional well-being of students.

The topic of ESA guardrails proved to be a major point of contention. The state's universal school voucher program has expanded rapidly, leading to questions about accountability and oversight. Candidates split on whether to tighten eligibility requirements, increase financial audits, or impose new academic standards on participating private schools. Some argued that the current system lacks sufficient transparency, while others defended the program as a vital tool for school choice.

Education funding remains a central issue, with candidates debating the adequacy of the current budget. Proposals ranged from increasing teacher salaries and reducing class sizes to expanding career and technical education programs. The candidates also addressed the ongoing teacher shortage, with some calling for better pay and others advocating for alternative certification pathways to bring more professionals into the classroom.

As voters prepare to head to the polls, these debates are shaping the narrative of a race that will determine the direction of Arizona's education system for years to come. The primary election is expected to narrow the field to two candidates who will face off in the general election.