Arizona ranks 49th in the nation in federal student aid completion rates, but state leaders hope the $500,000 investment will help turn that around.
Gov. Katie Hobbs announced the investment Wednesday, saying it will increase resources across the state to support students and families and increase FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) completion events.
Funds will be distributed by the Arizona Board of Regents.
New this year, the FAFSA form was designed to simplify the process. However, delays and data issues have resulted in a decrease in the number of students completing the application process compared to 2023.
The statewide FAFSA coalition, led by ABOR, has created resources for students, families, and college access professionals. These resources can be accessed at CollegeReadyAZ.com/FAFSA.
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Nationally recognized as a Marana teacher
Zachary Zash, a gifted education teacher at Roadrunner Elementary School in the Marana Unified School District, has been named a 2023 Javits-Frazier Scholar by the National Association for Gifted Children. There are only 10 recipients nationwide. Zash is the only recipient from Arizona.
The program's primary goal is to increase access to talent development opportunities for culturally and linguistically diverse students through educator training and support for equity and excellence in gifted education. All scholarship recipients must work at a Title I school.
He received a surprise visit from the Pima County Schools Superintendent's Office, who presented Mr. Zash with a certificate of excellence.
