Arizona ranks 49th in the nation for federal student aid completion, but state leaders are hoping a $500,000 investment will help turn that around.
Gov. Katie Hobbs announced the investment Wednesday, saying it will increase statewide resources to support students and families increase FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) completion events.
The funding will be distributed by the Arizona Board of Regents.
This year’s newly-launched FAFSA form was designed to simplify the process; however, delays and data issues have resulted in fewer students completing the application process compared to 2023.
A statewide FAFSA coalition led by ABOR has created resources for students, families and college-access professionals. These resources can be accessed at CollegeReadyAZ.com/FAFSA.
National recognition for Marana teacher
Zachary Zache, a Gifted Education Teacher at Roadrunner Elementary in the Marana Unified School District, was named a 2023 Javits-Frasier Scholar by the National Association for Gifted Children. There are only 10 honorees in the entire country. Zache is the sole Arizona recipient.
The program’s primary goal is to increase culturally and linguistically diverse students’ access to talent development opportunities through educator training and support related to equity and excellence in gifted education. All scholarship recipients must be working in Title I schools.
He received a surprise visit from the Pima County School Superintendent’s Office, who presented Zache with a Certificate of Excellence.
