Arizona’s education system is facing a severe teacher shortage, prompting State Superintendent Tom Horne to announce a partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). This collaboration aims to enhance access to quality instruction and improve student outcomes, particularly in rural and high-need areas. The Arizona Department of Education will leverage ASU’s instructional resources to tackle teacher shortages, boost math and literacy results, and ensure students have college-ready coursework aligned with the Arizona Board of Regents’ standards.
Horne expressed concern over the worsening teacher shortage and emphasized the need for improved student performance in core subjects. “The teacher shortage is reaching catastrophic proportions,” he said. “This partnership allows us to bring additional capacity to schools and districts—without replacing local control—by providing high-quality instructional support where it is most needed.”
ASU President Michael Crow highlighted the university’s commitment to supporting teachers and improving student outcomes. “Arizona State University exists to be of service to the citizens of the state,” Crow said. “This partnership brings ASU’s instructional capacity directly to schools.”
The partnership will provide certified virtual teachers for hard-to-staff subjects, expanded math tutoring, summer learning opportunities, professional development for K–5 teachers, and virtual learning communities for educators in isolated areas. These services aim to complement district efforts rather than replace them.
Amy McGrath, ASU vice president of Outreach, noted that all services would be free for districts. “By working alongside ADE and school leaders,” she said, “we’re expanding modern, high-quality instructional support.”
Implementation will begin in phases starting Spring 2026 with targeted math acceleration and staffing support in high-need schools.
