Arizona Superintendent of Schools Expresses Frustration with ‘School Choice’ Policies

In a rare move, Curtis Finch, the superintendent of a prominent Arizona district, has spoken out against what he calls the erosion of trust in Arizona’s public school system due to misinformation spread on cable news and social media. Finch, known for his blunt honesty, accuses Republican legislative leaders of believing in “false narratives” while making critical decisions about education.

As the legislature debates details of a new general budget for the 2024-2025 school year and a November ballot proposition involving an increase in school funding, Finch’s allegations have sparked controversy. He points to the damaging effects of misinformation on public trust and the culture wars that have engulfed school board meetings.

Finch, who leads the Deer Valley Unified School District serving nearly 35,000 students, is concerned about the animosity against public schools fueled by misinformation. He highlights the challenges faced by districts in covering funding gaps through local bonds and overrides, as well as the false accusations of misspending.

While Finch’s claims have been met with skepticism by some Republican legislative leaders, he remains steadfast in his mission to fight misinformation and advocate for public education. As the debate over school funding intensifies, Finch’s voice adds a crucial perspective to the ongoing discussions about the future of Arizona’s education system.