Arizona’s public schools need help. Even as we agree with the truthfulness of that statement, a solution isn’t obvious. But, we as leaders within rural Arizona’s political and education communities want to help our colleagues focus on the heart of the problem the way we do. Then we can work toward meaningful solutions.

Gov. Doug Ducey’s proposed $5 million to bring high-speed internet to Arizona schools — most of them rural — will only serve one-fifth of the schools.

In her 2008 State of the State Address, Gov. Janet Napolitano proposed providing, despite the state's growing economic challenges, free college tuition to Arizona high school students who get good grades, perform community service and stay out of trouble.