In his State of the State address, Gov. Doug Ducey said that he is “ready to make a commitment educators can take to the bank." The Governor focused most of the address on public education.
During his nearly hour long speech, Ducey told Arizona educators that he “values their work” and that “it’s time to return the favor.”
Expanding on Proposition 123’s $3.5 billion initiative, Ducey laid out the next steps. It provides more resources for teachers and classrooms, increasing funding for all-day kindergarten and investing in teacher retention and recruitment strategies.
To help public teachers stay ahead of the curve, Ducey promised tuition debt relief. And to keep teachers in Arizona, Ducey said he wants a permanent pay increase, as well as a $1,000 signing bonus.
On the teacher shortage, Ducey proposed easing Arizona’s certification process and scrapping, what he called, an outdated statewide standard.
The Governor admitted it is an ambitious plan, considering he is committed to accomplishing this without raising taxes.