/ Modified oct 9, 2015 4:54 p.m.

AZ WEEK: Which Plan Will Work to Boost Arizona Education?

A look at funding plans from state leaders and the practices of rural schools.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas this month released her master plan for improving Arizona’s K-12 education system.

Gov. Doug Ducey and state legislators have released their own distinct education funding plans.

Arizona Week Friday looks the complexities of improving Arizona education from the perspectives of rural communities, academics and state government.

On the program:

  • AZPM’s first one-on-one interview with Diane Douglas, by AZPM's Mariana Dale. She discusses her most important priorities and the ongoing collaboration between her office and the Tucson Unified School District to moderate culturally relevant classes.

  • Ron Marx, dean of the University of Arizona College of Education, shares his reaction to the superintendent’s proposals.

  • Host Lorraine Rivera travels to Willcox and introduces us to teacher Nidhi Mehta, a candidate for rural teacher of the year in Arizona. “I’m a living example and a testimony that you can still grow by working in a rural school district,” Mehta said.

  • Many school districts in Arizona operate with teacher vacancies. That’s not the case in Willcox. District Superintendent Kevin Davis explains how he recruits quality educators.

  • The Buzz: AZPM reporters Christopher Conover and Mariana Dale dissect Douglas’ education plan and what it will take to put it into action.

What do you think Arizona's education system needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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