Senator David Farnsworth (R-AZ) plans to make life easier for Arizona's alternative education programs by cutting through government red tape through his newly introduced Senate Bill 1026.
The Senate Education Committee approved SB 1026 last Wednesday, advancing the measure that would alter how alternative schools maintain their state approval.
Under current rules, alternative education programs must reapply for state certification annually. Farnsworth's bill would eliminate the annual recertification requirement for programs that meet performance standards.
"Alternative education programs are designed to support students who require a different approach to learning, and the regulations governing these programs should reflect that need," Farnsworth said. "When alternative schools are performing well, they shouldn't be bogged down by redundant paperwork that diverts time and resources away from students."
However, the legislation maintains oversight requirements while changing the frequency of certification renewals for programs in good standing.
"This bill reduces unnecessary red tape, provides alternative educators with the flexibility they require, and focuses oversight on what truly matters," Farnsworth explained. "Ultimately, it's about ensuring that our alternative education system effectively serves the students it was designed to help."
Alternative education programs help students who don't fit traditional schools. Some are online, such as ASU Prep Digital. Additionally, Pathways in Education helps students catch up on credits.
Along with Desert Choice, this school provides behavioral and emotional support services. Arizona also has Montessori schools, job-training programs, and other specialized options.
These programs include flexible scheduling, self-paced coursework, smaller class sizes, and individualized instruction.
Alternative schools in Arizona are defined by the Arizona Department of Education and typically serve students who may be at risk of not completing traditional high school programs, and this is a priority for Senator Farnsworth.
The bill now advances to the full Senate for consideration.
