Education Forward Arizona

Education Forward Arizona is proud to welcome Ricardo Lopez Valencia as Senior Vice President of Education and Workforce Alignment. A respected executive, strategist, and civic leader, Ricardo brings more than 30 years of experience across education, workforce development, business, and community leadership, with consistent focus on expanding opportunity for students and adult learners.

In this role, he will help deepen collaboration among schools, postsecondary institutions, employers, and community partners—engaging superintendents, educators, and business leaders—while advancing integrated education and training pathways that help more Arizonans see, understand, and navigate their routes to meaningful work and long-term economic opportunity. His appointment reflects Education Forward Arizona’s commitment to standing with learners and building a more aligned and effective education-to-workforce ecosystem statewide.

Please join us in welcoming Ricardo.

Arizona students have valuable perspectives to share on the future of education in our state. The Arizona State Board of Education Student Advisory Panel application is now open for high school students interested in advocacy, leadership, and education policy. Panel members will provide student input on key education topics, learn more about how education decisions are made at the state level, and elevate important issues directly to the Board.

Students eligible to apply must be in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade during the 2026–2027 school year and enrolled in an Arizona district, charter, private, online school, or participate in homeschool/ESA.

Know a student who would be a great fit for this opportunity? Share and encourage them to apply:

Student Advisory Panel Application This form is used to apply to be considered for a position on the Arizona State Board of Education Student Advisory Panel. The application should be completed by the student applying for a position. The purpose of the Student Advisory Panel is to be able to share student input and insight with the B...