Candidate Responds to New Report Showcasing Continued Failed Leadership for AZ Schools

The Associated Press reported today that for the second year in a row, Arizona is placed last in the country’s “Smartest State” report. Jason Williams, candidate for State Superintendent of Public Instruction responds.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) October 18, 2006 -- The Associated Press reported today that for the second year in a row, Arizona is placed last in the country’s “Smartest State” report.

“Arizona’s children deserve better,” says Jason Williams, former public school teacher and Executive Director of Teach For America in Arizona, running as the Democratic Nominee for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “Once again, the data shows how our children are being left behind under the current Superintendent’s watch.”

The Associated Press article states that this is the second year in a row where Arizona has come in dead last. Arizona is at the bottom, preceded by Nevada, Mississippi, California and Alaska. The ratings are based on 21 elementary and secondary education indicators, ranging from graduation rates and test scores to teacher pay and class size.

“It is time for new leadership,” Williams said. “It is time that Arizona voters elect someone who’s taught and worked in our public school classrooms. My goal is to decrease the high school drop out rate by at least 50% over the next four years. We must also ensure that all children read at their appropriate grade level by the second grade.”

The report is put out by Morgan Quitno Press, a private research and publishing company in Kansas.

Jason Williams is a former Middle School Teacher. Over the last five years, Jason served as Executive Director of Teach for America in Phoenix. Under his leadership he was accredited for helping secure over 600 new teachers in Arizona schools. He is running for State Superintendent for Public Instruction. To schedule and interview with Jason Williams, please contact Mark Trinitapoli at (480) 235-3261.

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