Phoenix approves $750K in funding for high school education initiative ElevateEdAZ

PHOENIX — The Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation will receive $750,000 in funding from the city to expand its education initiative, ElevateEdAZ, a college and career preparatory program for high school students.

The Phoenix City Council approved the proposal this week to award more resources to a program that aims to provide students work-based experience and career pathways in high-demand sectors, according to a press release.

“Through ElevateEdAZ, we have seen a significant increase in students enrolling in dual credit courses, obtaining industry-recognized credentials and garnering work-based experiences through internships and job shadows,” Todd Sanders, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber, said in the release.

“These opportunities have led to jobs and are changing the trajectory for these students and their families. We are proud the city of Phoenix has partnered with us to help expand this impact throughout the city.”

ElevateEdAZ offers students access to job shadows, internships, guest speakers, field trips and mock interviews among other opportunities, according to the release.

The foundation first partnered with the Phoenix Union High School District in March 2020 and has since partnered with Mesa Public Schools. Its expansion will provide resources to Paradise Valley High School in the Paradise Valley Unified School District, Alhambra and Betty Fairfax high schools in the PXU and a school district yet to be named.

“Creating the economy of the future for Phoenix means we’re creating the jobs of the future, too. Having young people who are clear-eyed and well-prepared for these jobs is essential,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in the release.

“I applaud the chamber for all it continues to do to make sure our kids — and their teachers — have access to the best tools and information available.”

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