Arizona Voters Want Elected Leaders to Take Action to Improve Public Education

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Sep 21, 2026, 15:34 ET

New Arizona Voters' Agenda research shows support for public schools, concern about K-12 outcomes, and broad agreement that elected leaders are not doing enough

PHOENIX, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Arizona voters remain strongly committed to public education, but few rate the state's K-12 system highly, and most say elected leaders are not doing enough to improve it. New statewide nonpartisan public opinion survey research shows voters want leaders to be more focused on students' academic success and their longstanding education priorities.

Arizona voters remain strongly committed to public education, but few rate the state’s K-12 system highly, and most say elected leaders are not doing enough to improve it.

The findings are the latest addition to Center for the Future of Arizona's (CFA) 2026 Arizona Voters' Agenda, adding insight to the comprehensive education agenda reflected in voters' priorities announced last month.

"Arizonans understand how important education is to their own lives, as well as to the success of their communities and the state's prosperity," said Dr. Sybil Francis, Chair, President & CEO of CFA. "Their commitment to public education has been clear throughout the years of our research. They want every child to have strong foundations, opportunities to develop their talents, and pathways to a good future. That shared commitment is a powerful foundation for leaders. Voters expect elected leaders to act on it and deliver the results Arizona's students deserve."

Strong Support for Public Education Across Party Lines
Amid Arizona's political debates over education, the findings make clear that support for public education remains strong across political affiliations and generations.

When asked directly about their support for public education, 83% of voters agree with the statement, "I continue to support public education in Arizona. Public schools play an important role in creating opportunity for students, strengthening our economy, and supporting strong communities." Fifty-eight percent strongly agree. Agreement includes 71% of Republicans, 84% of independent and unaffiliated voters, and 98% of Democrats, as well as majorities in every age group surveyed.

That support builds on earlier 2026 findings showing 91% of voters agree Arizona's future depends on a strong public education system that prepares students for success in life and work, including 86% of Republicans, 92% of independent and unaffiliated voters, and 96% of Democrats.

Voters Express Concern About K-12 Performance
Voters' commitment to public education exists alongside concern about how the system is performing.

SOURCE Center for the Future of Arizona