Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/610158
8 ADVOCATE | WINTER 2015/16 rizona Business & Education Coalition's President and CEO Dick Foreman said, "ABEC carefully and thoughtfully reviewed concerns that were raised, and appreciates those concerns, but believes that the benefi ts offered by the compromises the Governor has made to his original plan are worthy changes that on balance merit our full support." "Secondly, ABEC supports the infl ation lawsuit compromise that must also go before Arizona voters. While some may fi nd fault in any negotiated settlement, ABEC thanks the Governor for his leadership that has earned legislative majority support and hopefully, fair consideration from all members who wish to see this issue resolved for the benefi t of Arizona's public school children." Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas said in a statement on Tuesday that she was pleased to hear that an agreement has been reached and reports of a special session. "I strongly support the decision makers who have come together to address the need for increased education funding, including Gov. Ducey and leadership at the Legislature," said Superintendent Douglas. "I am excited and pleasantly surprised to hear that the plaintiffs and defendants in the lawsuit were able to reach a compromise that will result in immediate new funds for our schools." School districts around the state are commenting on the deal. Peoria Unifi ed School District released a statement supporting the agreement, but noted this funding is not a replacement for additional future funding or local voter approved initiatives, such as bond authorizations and budget overrides, which directly support capital projects and programs throughout the district. Vince Roig, founding chairman of Helios Education Foundation and board chairman of College Success Arizona, said the deal is a step in the right direction. "While I'm very proud of what we're doing, let me just share with you that since 2007, we've taken $3.5 billion out of education," Roig said. "So at the end of the next 10 years, we will be where we were in 2007." Roig asked business and education leaders attending College Success Arizona's Leaders & Legends luncheon to support the deal, and "remind our legislators that this is only the fi rst step." Roig noted that Arizona seems to be striving to rise from 48th in the nation in education to the middle—the U.S. average. "I don't want to be 25th. I want to be fi rst," Roig said. "We need to make sure that we put the right things together in Arizona to make it happen. We need you to make sure that happens as well." "The Arizona Technology Council supports these efforts because a strong education system is extremely important to our member companies when it comes to attracting qualifi ed workers into the state, growing their businesses and raising their families," said Steven Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council. "This increased investment helps to make Arizona more competitive." at the capitol Reaction from Community A