Exploring Educational Challenges in Funding, Vouchers, and Overall Reform
In the latest episode of "Around the District," Nicole Brown sat down again with Cedric Collins—school board member, veteran educator, and committed advocate for equitable education in Arizona’s schools. Their conversation dives deep into the most urgent education reform topics facing us today: school funding challenges, the impacts of scholarship vouchers, and the need for systemic, community-driven change. Here’s what stood out and why true progress depends on all of us.
The Harsh Realities of School Funding
One of the key themes Cedric addressed was chronic underfunding—the most persistent of our school funding challenges. Arizona’s public schools are hemmed in by severe budget constraints. Every dollar is accounted for, forcing district leaders into tough decisions that consistently hit urban and lower-income communities the hardest. Hands-on learning and trade programs—essential for Black, Brown, and working-class students—are among the first to be cut. Meanwhile, the state’s investment in prisons remains untouched, highlighting misplaced priorities that leave our most vulnerable students shouldering the burden.
Cedric made it clear: Funding shortfalls don’t hit all students equally. Addressing education reform means advocating for school finance policies that value every child, not just those in privileged ZIP codes.
The Voucher Dilemma and Its Impacts
The conversation then turned to voucher impacts—specifically, the spread of Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA). Originally designed for students with severe disabilities, these vouchers are now widely used, most often by families who already have access to top educational opportunities. Oversight is lacking, the barriers to entry remain steep, and entire communities, like those in South Phoenix or Chandler, remain underrepresented and underserved.
Cedric shared how even his own well-informed family never seriously considered using vouchers, underscoring a clear disconnect. Policies are often made by leaders whose own children attend private or charter schools, creating a ripple effect that diminishes opportunity in the public system for those who need it most.
Outdated Models Versus Critical Thinking
Cedric pointed out that Arizona’s system to this day still resembles a “Henry Ford” factory—focused on standardized tests instead of nurturing life skills, creativity, and real-world critical thinking. Budget cuts strip away valuable programs like auto shop, engineering, and hands-on career training, which are foundational pathways for countless students.
This outdated model leaves many talented students and families locked out and feeling unseen, a reality compounded by persistent underrepresentation in curriculum and leadership.
The Importance of Representation
Education reform isn’t only about budgets or policies; it’s also about people. Cedric’s election to the Kyrene School Board represents more than a win for diversity—it's a step toward elevating leaders who truly understand the lived experiences and needs of every community. He and Nicole agreed: Real, lasting change means creating space for every voice, especially parents and students who have often felt unwelcome or shut out of the conversation.
When school boards are more reflective, transparent, and inclusive, equitable education becomes a possibility for all—not just for a privileged few.
Get Involved and Demand Better
Cedric and Nicole’s conversation is a clear call to action: If equitable education matters to you, this is the moment to step up. Attend your local school board meetings and speak out for fair school funding and responsible voucher policies. Advocate for education reform that prioritizes critical thinking, creativity, and the programs that matter to students’ long-term success. Hold leaders accountable—ask them where their kids go to school, and why.
We can’t wait for top-down change—building an equitable education system takes grassroots, community-led involvement at every level. Whether you’re a parent, student, educator, or committed supporter, your advocacy is needed now more than ever.
Let’s join forces to push for the school funding changes, voucher reforms, and inclusive leadership every Arizona child deserves. Our future depends on it.