Laura Metcalfe: Cleaning up school finances in Maricopa County

In this episode of the Modern Arizona Podcast, host Billie Tarascio interviews Laura Metcalfe, a candidate for Maricopa County School Superintendent. Laura shares her extensive experience in Arizona's education system, including her past role as a small schools administrator and her work with the Accommodation District. Together, they discuss the responsibilities of the county school superintendent, the challenges facing Arizona’s public education system, and Laura’s plan to address the financial crisis plaguing the county’s Accommodation School District.

Throughout the conversation, Laura explains how the superintendent’s office supports school districts, oversees elections, and manages grants. She also highlights the mismanagement that has led to a $10 million debt for the Accommodation District and outlines her strategy to restore fiscal accountability if elected. Laura emphasizes the importance of transparency, ensuring that Maricopa County taxpayers understand how their money is spent and what actions are being taken to fix the current financial issues.

Timeline Summary:

[1:00] - Laura Metcalfe introduces herself and explains the role of the Maricopa County School Superintendent.
 [3:30] - The superintendent’s office: supporting school districts, managing elections, and overseeing grants.
 [6:45] - Laura’s experience working with rural schools and her role in the Accommodation District.
 [9:00] - How financial mismanagement has led to a $10 million debt for the Accommodation District.
 [15:00] - Laura’s plan to address fiscal accountability and ensure transparency in the superintendent’s office.
 [20:00] - The challenges facing Arizona’s education system and how Laura aims to improve it.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Laura Metcalf’s campaign here.

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