at the capitol
6 ADVOCATE | SUMMER 2020
Arizona has one of the worst teacher
shortages and some of the largest class sizes
in the nation. This measure will enable
us to provide meaningful pay raises for
teachers, classroom aides, and other student
support staff. This will also enable schools
to hire more counselors, school nurses, and
other staff who keep students healthy and
safe. Investing in public education now is
especially important so school staff and
administrators can help students recover
the learning losses caused by the COVID-19
crisis.
AEA members and education supporters
showed their commitment and willingness
to step up and take action, despite facing
the challenges and obstacles of a global
pandemic. Our volunteers collected these
petition signatures during the hottest days
of the Arizona summer while maintaining
safe social distancing practices. Once again,
AEA members have risen to the occasion for
public education and made history.
