Arizona Superintendent Candidates Debated Policy Proposals
Candidates Kimberly Yee and Teresa Leyba Ruiz discussed education funding and school programs ahead of November.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Administration
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Should states cap family income levels for participation in school voucher programs?
State superintendent candidates Kimberly Yee and Teresa Leyba Ruiz participated in a 30-minute debate hosted by Arizona Public Radio on September 21, 2026. The forum focused on the future of the Empowerment Scholarship Account program as voters prepare for the November 2026 general election.
Why it matters
The outcome of this election will determine leadership for Arizona schools and set the direction for state-funded private and homeschooling programs. Candidates are seeking to replace current Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne, shaping how local families navigate school choice and academic accountability.
The debate centered on a failed citizen initiative that would have limited Empowerment Scholarship Account eligibility to families earning $150,000 or less. Candidates also evaluated proposed accountability measures for these state funds.
The players
Kimberly Yee
Candidate for state superintendent of public instruction and current official.
Teresa Leyba Ruiz
Candidate for state superintendent of public instruction and former employee at Glendale Community College.
Tom Horne
The current Superintendent of Public Instruction in Arizona.
The details
The candidates addressed the management of the Empowerment Scholarship Account program, which provides state funding for private schools or homeschooling. They also debated the integration of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within the state school system. Separately, candidate Kimberly Yee filed a formal complaint with the state Attorney General accusing Teresa Leyba Ruiz of using school resources for campaigning purposes.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: Candidates participated in a televised public debate.
November 2026: General election for state superintendent of public instruction.
The Home Front
This race highlights the ongoing administrative tension surrounding the state-funded Empowerment Scholarship Account program. The election outcome will determine the future regulatory environment for school choice in Arizona.
Arizona families should review their children's school enrollment options and current scholarship program requirements before the November election. Monitor the state Attorney General's office for updates regarding the status of the campaign complaint filed during the cycle.
The takeaway
Voters should track how potential changes to scholarship eligibility and school initiatives may impact their family education budget. Be sure to check your official voter registration status ahead of the November 2026 general election.
Further reading
Learn more about local school governance at Arizona Administration.
Live Poll
Should states cap family income levels for participation in school voucher programs?
