Join the Rising Generations Strategy Group The Aspen Education & Society Program is seeking exceptional young leaders (ages 18-24) to serve as Youth Advisory Partners (YAP) in the Rising Generations Strategy Group. This unique opportunity brings together approximately 30 national leaders from Military, Technology, Education, Civics, Policy, and Nonprofit sectors to shape the future of K-12 education. Unlike traditional youth advisory roles, YAP members serve as equal partners—not junior advisors—working alongside C-suite executives, military leaders, and senior policymakers. We're looking for individuals who bring lived experience in K-12 systems, strategic thinking abilities, cross-generational fluency, and leadership strengths that will contribute to high-level policy discussions and strategic decision-making. Ideal candidates demonstrate: Lived experience and educational context that provides authentic insight into K-12 systems Leadership aptitude with a track record of initiative and impact Reliability and follow-through in prior commitments Sound judgment and discretion with sensitive information Effective communication across diverse audiences and high-pressure settings Ability to navigate conflict and differing viewpoints productively Applications close on January 25, 2026 (11:59 PM). If you have any questions, please contact Omaer Naeem at [email protected].

San Tan Valley, AZ - The National Rural Schools Association (NREA) recently released its Why Rural Matters 2025 report, a comprehensive analysis that examines the state of rural K-12 education across the United States. Originally developed by the Rural Schools and Community Trust, the report has provided valuable insights into rural education for over two decades, serving as a critical resource for policymakers, educators, and communities.

Closing out this year’s Pay Tribute to a Teacher program, brought to you by Your Valley Toyota Dealers, is our December winner: Charil Nengasca.

Part of the purpose for ARSA is to present a unified voice for rural education in Arizona and to articulate the interests of rural districts in state level decision making. With this purpose in mind please complete the following survey to help identify Legislative priorities for ARSA during the 2026 Legislative session. Note: Your email is collected only to prevent duplicate survey submissions. We will not store the email connected to your submission.

Nonprofit Learning Undefeated is partnering with the Dee Howard International Education Foundation (DHEDF) to advance the Foundation’s Rural STEM Initiative and bring high-quality, hands-on STEM curriculum and resources to students and teachers in rural communities.

Six Arizona schools received the coveted National Blue Ribbon School recognition this year and it may be the final year the federal government recognizes schools with this honor.