Announcing Education Forward Arizona
Education Forward Arizona – is a reflection of what business, education and community leaders across the state are saying: If we want to move our state forward, we must move education forward. Our future depends on the success of our education system. When our education system is strong, Arizona will thrive.
Education Forward Arizona seeks to improve education outcomes and close achievement gaps, from early learning through K-12 and postsecondary attainment. The organization is the next evolution of the work of three well known education non-profits who joined forces earlier this year — Achieve60AZ, College Success Arizona and Expect More Arizona.
“Arizonans want bold action that moves education forward in Arizona. It’s time to close the aspiration gap between what people in the state repeatedly say they want and the underfunded and inequitable system we have. We need to work together, statewide, to find solutions that advance the prosperity of all Arizonans.”
Rich Nickel, president and CEO of Education Forward Arizona
Education Forward Arizona will focus on building the case for education as an investment and not an expense, collaboratively driving action to close achievement gaps and influencing courageous actions to meet the goals in the Education Progress Meter. The organization will also lead innovative programs to serve primarily low-income and first-generation students to help them reach and complete a postsecondary education.
“The launch of Education Forward Arizona is a turning point for education in our state. Education and the economy are inextricably linked. To get where we want to go, we need every student to thrive. As a state, we must prioritize supporting our underserved students.”
Vince Roig, chair of Education Forward Arizona’s board of directors.
The organization launches with support from more than 50 partners from across the state from the education, business, philanthropic, community and nonprofit communities. Launching Education Forward Arizona with these partners demonstrates how the organization sees its mission being achieved — with all sectors and stakeholders working together to build the public and political will needed to meet the goals in the Arizona Education Progress Meter.
We look forward to talking with you and partnering together to move education forward.