New member appointed to state board of education

(The Center Square) – Northern Arizona University President Dr. Jose Luis Cruz Rivera was appointed by Gov. Katie Hobbs to the state Board of Education this week.

“He has been a steadfast leader for the students and faculty at NAU, and he will bring that leadership to the State Board of Education. As a Lumberjack, I could not be more thrilled to appoint him to this position, and know that he will work tirelessly to create a public education system that ensures every Arizonan has a chance to thrive,” Hobbs stated about the appointment to the board, which focuses on K-12 education.

Cruz Rivera is now part of a decision-making body that includes Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne, university leaders, local superintendents, a teacher, and other public members that plays a key role in the state’s education policies. According to the board's website, the terms last four years except for the state superintendent, given that it is an elected position.

“A strong educational system, from pre-K through college and beyond, is essential to the future prosperity of the people, communities, and economy of Arizona," said Northern Arizona University he stated. “I am honored to be appointed to the State Board of Education by Governor Hobbs and look forward to furthering the important work of educational attainment and equity, strengthening collaborations between K-12 and higher education, and ensuring students in our state have access to high-quality educational opportunities."

The appointment was a welcomed move to the leader of the Arizona Board of Regents, which is the governing body that oversees the state's three public universities: NAU, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona.

“Since beginning his term as President of NAU in 2021, Dr. Cruz Rivera has been a persistent advocate for educational access in Arizona, leading with a bold vision that puts students first. He recognizes the immense responsibility we have to our shared communities to offer excellent public education to all Arizonans,” Arizona Board of Regents Chair Cecilia Mata stated.

The Center Square reported in March that the board plays a key role in the Empowerment Scholarship Account handbook’s approval, as the program is now universal since 2022 and continues to remain a hot topic in the state’s political landscape.