We are pleased to see that Gov. Brewer has prioritized resources for the implementation of Arizona’s Common Core Standards in her fiscal year 2014 budget.

Spring break is here and that means a much-needed break for teachers, students and parents. However, just because students get a break from the classroom doesn’t mean our kids should stop learning. In fact, spring break offers the opportunity for parents to explore creative and fun ways to keep their kids engaged in learning activities -- activities that challenge them and help them develop critical-thinking and other skills that will help them succeed in college, career and life.

In the midst of election season, as we are pulled in multiple directions for our vote, we need to look seriously at one of the election’s most important issues – education, and why it matters for Arizona’s future economic vitality.

Expect More Arizona’s Pearl Chang Esau’s passion for education is a testament to her family’s history and her own upbringing.

Pearl Esau told a Sun City West audience this week that educational excellence and equity must become Arizona’s most pressing priority. “Teach For America has become a sought-out partner to raise the bar for student achievement and catalyze education reform across the state,” said Esau, Teach For America Phoenix executive director.

Construction cranes looming over Intel Corp.’s Ocotillo campus helping assemble a $5.2 billion chip-fabrication plant will employ 1,000 people.

Gov. Jan Brewer called Monday for Arizona to make performance part of the formula that allocates school funding.

In the midst of election season, as we are pulled in multiple directions for our vote, we need to look seriously at one of the election’s most important issues — education, and why it matters for Arizona’s future economic vitality.

Before we get into the second-annual year-end Hammer awards, I want to share with you the following quote that I think makes clear how fortunate we are to live in America.