July 28, 2026

Education Forward Arizona Welcomes New Board Member

Dr. Tracey Lopeman brings decades of public education leadership to the board

July 28, 2026 – Education Forward Arizona is proud to welcome Dr. Tracey Lopeman, Superintendent of Maricopa Unified School District, to the organization’s board of directors. A lifelong educator with more than three decades of experience in Arizona public education, Lopeman brings deep expertise in student achievement, educational leadership and strategic partnerships.

“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Lopeman to our board,” said Rich Nickel, President and CEO of Education Forward Arizona. “Her extensive experience leading school systems, building strong community partnerships and expanding opportunities for students aligns closely with our mission. Her perspective will be invaluable as we continue strengthening Arizona’s education pipeline and prepare more students for success after high school.”

Lopeman is entering her ninth year as superintendent of Maricopa Unified School District. Under her leadership, the district has become a statewide leader in National Board Certified teachers while expanding programs, including community preschool, PreK-2 dual language, accelerated K-2 instruction and gifted education.

During her tenure, MUSD has improved its graduation rate, expanded Career and Technical Education with new programs and an increased number of CTE completers, opened the District’s second comprehensive high school, and launched Arizona’s first K–8 work-based learning model. The District also earned Cognia Systems Accreditation, reflecting its commitment to continuous improvement and student success.

With more than three decades of experience in public education, Lopeman has previously served in the Alhambra Elementary School District as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and Assistant Superintendent of Strategic Alliances and Government Relations. Throughout her career, she has built partnerships among schools, higher education institutions, businesses, government agencies and families to improve educational outcomes for Arizona students.

“I’ve spent my career helping students discover what’s possible through education, and I believe every Arizona student deserves access to opportunities that prepare them for success after high school. Education Forward Arizona brings together education, business and community leaders around that shared vision, and I’m honored to contribute to that work.”

Lopeman earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University and both her master’s and doctorate from Arizona State University. She is eligible to serve on the board for as many as three consecutive terms of three years each.