STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Recent events involving school district leadership have raised serious questions about the management of public education dollars and what happens when accountability fails. In response, State Representative Matt Gress, Chairman of the House Education Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, has introduced a package of legislation to tighten oversight, increase transparency, and keep education decisions focused on students and classrooms.

“The events at Tolleson make clear why stronger accountability measures are necessary,” said Representative Gress. “When school leaders control large public budgets with little oversight, taxpayers and classrooms pay the price. Arizona families deserve confidence that education dollars are managed responsibly and that those in authority are held to clear, enforceable standards.”

Representative Gress introduced HB2387, HB2386, HB2381, HB2382, HB2377, and HB2385, a package of bills addressing superintendent contracts and duties. Superintendents oversee large public budgets, yet too often operate with limited scrutiny. These measures set clear standards to curb unchecked discretion, increase transparency, and eliminate excessive contract benefits available only to superintendents and not to other district employees. The legislation refocuses compensation and contract terms on performance and results rather than entitlement.

Representative Gress also introduced HB2318, HB2380, and HB2379 to strengthen school board governance. School board members exercise broad authority over district operations, policy decisions, and student safety. One bill requires mandatory training to ensure board members understand their legal responsibilities and are prepared to make informed decisions. The package also establishes consequences when board members fail to carry out their duties.

In addition, Representative Gress introduced legislation to restrict certain school district leasing and financial arrangements, HB2384, HB2376, and HB2383. School districts exist to educate students, not to operate as financial intermediaries. These bills keep education dollars directed toward classrooms, instruction, and student learning.

“Public schools exist to serve students, not administrators or board members who disregard their responsibilities,” Representative Gress said. “This legislative package sets clear rules and ensures education dollars stay focused where they belong—on instruction and students.”

Matt Gress is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 4 in Phoenix and is Chairman of the House Committee on Education. Follow him on X at @MatthewGress.