Sen. Petersen Stands Strong for ESAs Amid Fierce School Choice Opposition

By Daniel Stefanski |

An influential figure in Arizona’s Republican legislature is pushing back against claims made by an anti-school choice organization. Senate President Warren Petersen recently addressed a post from Save Our Schools AZ, which claimed that the Roosevelt school board’s decision to close five public schools stemmed from significant budget deficits. The organization pointed to chronic state underfunding and the impact of universal ESA vouchers as contributing factors.

Petersen countered, asserting that the primary issue is a declining student population rather than funding cuts or the state’s Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs). He noted, “Funding has doubled over the last 12 years, now at $15,000 per student.” Furthermore, he suggested that schools facing closure should reevaluate their operations if they struggle while receiving substantial funding.

He supplemented his argument by sharing comparative funding figures: traditional districts receive $14,857 per student, charter schools get $12,510, and ESAs provide $7,700. Petersen emphasized the ongoing financial and legislative support from Republicans for K-12 public education, underscoring the need to empower parents in choosing educational paths that best suit their children.

Moreover, Petersen deemed the narrative that ESAs are siphoning funds from public schools incorrect. He asserted that public schools should adapt to changing enrollment trends and focus on effective curriculum delivery to prevent families from seeking alternatives.

In addition to the Roosevelt situation, Save Our Schools AZ reported potential school closures in the Cave Creek Unified School District. Officials there are reportedly attributing their challenges partly to the state’s voucher program, which allows school-aged children to use public funds for private or homeschooling expenses.

This escalating conflict between Petersen and Save Our Schools AZ coincides with the upcoming legislative session where school choice will likely be a major topic. Over the past two years of a divided government in Arizona, Republicans have consistently defended school choice, while the Democratic-led initiatives, particularly from Governor Katie Hobbs, to reduce these options have faced resistance. Petersen’s leadership role will continue to position him as a key player in these discussions as the new session unfolds.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.