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TOLLESON, Ariz. (AP) - A newly launched program aims to increase the number of qualified teachers in Arizona K-12 public schools by providing a tuition waiver for participating students at the three state universities.
The state Board of Regents says the Arizona Teachers Academy will attract more teachers to the field by rewarding those who teach in Arizona public schools by ensuring they arrive in classrooms "highly qualified to teach and unburdened by tuition debt."
The program's enrollment began this fall with approximately 230 students and is anticipated to grow to 730 students by the program's fifth year.
Gov. Doug Ducey and university officials announced the program Tuesday at a Tolleson event.
Ducey included a call for free tuition at state universities for prospective teachers in his State of the State address in January.