Chapter 3: Arizona

The Arizona constitution requires the state legislature to establish a general and uniform public school system.¹ Section 10 of that same article further requires:

The language of the constitution’s education article is mostly clear. However, the words in the last sentence have been subjected to wide interpretation. Arizona has had an equalization formula since the 1970s, but prior to 1980² there were unlimited overrides with no time limits, no limit on transportation spending, no limit on county-paid employer retirement and social security for certified employees, 7% annual increases for regular education and special education, separate budgets for regular and special education transportation, and districts were allowed wide levy discretion. Beginning in 1980, revenue control limits were set and equalization of budget limits occurred from 1981–1986. In 1994, open enrollment was mandated.