The 2005 legislative session was remarkable in the breadth of education issues addressed but troubling in its ideological focus. The session included vouchers, tax credits, and some much-needed vetoes. There was clearly an agenda in play that was more about politics than policy.

However, we do now have a short-term “bridge” for the AIMS graduation requirement, the very important expansion of full-day kindergarten, and a requisite that school districts enact performance-based pay compensation packages based on certain guidelines and at an open public meeting.

Cornerstone legislation for this year, however, may be the resolution of the Flores Consent Decree, and this is yet to be finalized. Failure to adequately fund the English Language Learners programs as ordered by the federal court could leave Arizona exposed to crippling sanctions that will impact the entire state. Governor Napolitano vetoed the legislature’s faulty solution and Republican leadership failed to hold meaningful dialogues on the issue. With a political stalemate continuing, and the time clock for a decision winding dangerously low, actions taken in the next few weeks will ultimately punctuate the 2005 legislative session.

In the meantime, the education community can take solace that vouchers were vetoed and new tuition tax credits were limited. We can also cheer the expansion of full-day kindergarten, the additional funding for K-12 education and the inclusion a meaningful review of performance-based compensation packages.

Foremost, we must acknowledge the efforts of Governor Napolitano and those bold, principled legislators who have taken a leadership role in advancing solid education policy and working to ensure that every Arizona child receives a quality public education.

John Wright is president of the Arizona Education Association.