Inspiring High Expectations and a Shared Vision of Excellence
Arizona and our students deserve an education system that is recognized as a model of excellence across the nation and around the world. As a statewide, nonpartisan collaborative, Expect More Arizona unites individuals and organizations that believe expectations must be higher and share our commitment to making Arizona education, from birth through career, the best in the nation.
The path to higher expectations and educational excellence requires great teachers, motivated students, engaged parents, committed leaders and supportive communities – all working together to increase student academic achievement and ultimately their readiness to succeed in college and career. As a result, Expect More Arizona champions:
A Postsecondary-going culture – In today’s global economy, high school is no longer the finish line. From the earliest years, every Arizona child must be encouraged and fully prepared to attend and succeed in postsecondary education.
Higher Academic Standards – Arizona has raised the standards bar with the adoption of nationally benchmarked and internationally informed Common Core State Standards. Their effective implementation will help ensure students graduate ready for college and career, and better prepared to succeed in a global economy.
Greater Rigor and Relevance – Academic excellence requires coursework that is more challenging, engaging and relevant to students’ futures. All Arizona students must be provided with opportunities that develop creativity and critical thinking as well as shape strong collaboration and communication skills.
College and Career Ready Assessments – Employers and colleges are seeking graduates who are creative, collaborative and critical thinkers with strong communication skills. Assessments must evolve to measure content knowledge and well as the skills needed by employers and postsecondary programs.
Multiple Pathways to Postsecondary Education – Students and families have many options for pursuing postsecondary education. The key is to educate Arizonans about the multiple pathways to attaining certificates and degrees through career and technical education programs, community colleges and universities.
High quality education improves the options and opportunities available to our students and our state.
