As students and educators head back to school this month ready to learn, grow and prepare for the future, we continue to work diligently on advocating and acting on education improvements in Arizona. And the stakes have never been higher. Our state’s economic strength, workforce readiness, and shared prosperity all depend on the success of our students. 

At Education Forward Arizona, the back-to-school season is more than just the start of another academic year—it’s our call to action.



Our north star is simple but ambitious: by 2030, 60% of Arizona adults will hold a degree or credential. To reach that goal, we must ensure every student in Arizona, regardless of background or ZIP code, has the opportunity and support to pursue education and training beyond high school. 

Now Available in Español!



Guide To Your Future is a free, bilingual online resource that helps Arizona students and families plan for life after graduation with tools, tips, and support at every step. Whether exploring college, trade school, or other training programs, the site offers tools for students and families to understand their options, plan for costs, and connect with resources to make their goals a reality.



At Education Forward Arizona, we know we can’t do this work alone. We partner with individuals, companies, and foundations who believe in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen our state. There are many ways to get involved.

Read our partnership booklet to learn more.

Advocacy Updates

Help Ensure Funds Are Allocated for Critical Post-secondary Education Programs

Congress is finalizing the FY26 budget, and programs like Pell Grants, TRIO, GEAR UP, Work Study, FSEOG, and AmeriCorps are on the line. These essential programs strengthen communities in Arizona and across the country.



Please take a few minutes to email or call your elected official and advocate for education in Arizona.

Click here for a sample letter to use.

In light of mounting reports of alleged waste, fraud, and a stunning lack of oversight in Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, Education Forward Arizona once again calls for immediate and meaningful reforms.

Join us in calling on your legislators, the Governor, and the Arizona Department of Education to implement usage controls, academic performance tracking, public reporting, and fraud protections immediately to increase accountability of Arizona’s ESAs.

In The News

Helios CEO named Education Forward Arizona's 2025 Luminary award honoree

Program Updates and Resources

We joined the Arizona FAFSA Coalition for the 2025 FAFSA Summit, bringing together more than 100 school counselors, educators, state leaders, and community partners.

Guest Speakers, Peter Granville of the Century Foundation and Chris Cummings of Federal Student Aid shared insights on supporting FAFSA completion and a preview of updates to the 2026–27 FAFSA form. A panel of experts and advocates sparked dialogue on strategies to strengthen FAFSA completion statewide.

With improvements to the 2026-27 form and the dedication of professionals across Arizona, we're excited to support even more students in accessing the resources they need to pursue their postsecondary goals.

Do you know a group that would benefit from learning more about education, advocacy, and policy in Arizona? 

Our Community Impact Team is available to present to schools, civic groups, businesses, and community organizations on various education-related topics.

Contact our Senior Community Impact Manager, Laura Rosensweet at lrosensweet@educationforwardarizona.org to learn more.

Register Today for AskBenji's Spring and Fall Lunch & Learn Events!

Join our AskBenji team for monthly virtual convenings of high school counselors, leadership, educators, and college access professionals across AZ to exchange updates, share best practices, and collaborate.

September 24

Tri- University Admission Updates (What You Need to Know)



October 22

FAFSA 2026–27 Updates with ABOR + Special Guest: Maricopa Community Foundation

November 19

Scholarships 101: Finding Funding For Every Future

January 21

Expanding Access: Dual Enrollment & Student Support

February 25

Arizona’s Community Colleges: Hidden Gems For Career & College Pathways

March 25

AZ Department of Education Updates & Special Guest

Education Forward Arizona is excited to announce an opening for a Project Coordinator position with our College Knowing & Going (CKG) program in the Copper Corridor.



The CKG Project Coordinator will support high schools in the Copper Corridor, including Globe, Hayden, Miami, Payson, and Superior by developing and leading College Readiness Teams. The Coordinator will guide each team in planning and implementing an annual Work Plan to promote student readiness, strengthen postsecondary transitions, and leverage data and evidence to improve student success and drive continuous improvement.

To apply, email your Cover Letter and Current resume to jobs@educationforwardarizona.org