Attracting quality teachers will be subject of Town Hall session in Yuma

The public can enter into the discussion about how to attract and retain highly qualified teachers in Yuma County schools.

Arizona Town Hall will present a community program in Yuma at noon Tuesday to discuss the Town Hall's recommendation for a fundamental redesign of Arizona's education system to recruit and retain more qualified teachers.

The interactive program will seek public comment on how best to implement the changes needed to be competitive in a global marketplace.

The hourlong luncheon program will be held at Yuma Golf and Country Club, 3150 S. Fortuna Ave. The cost is $15.

The Yuma Rotary Club will host the program, which will present major recommendations that came from Arizona Town Hall's April meeting of statewide community leaders.

A cross section of statewide leaders met in Prescott for the Arizona Town Hall session titled "Who Will Teach Our Children?" Participants recommended that the Arizona Board of Education implement systemic reform in Arizona's education system, including providing teachers with professional pay levels and consistent professional development opportunities throughout the state.

Presenters Tuesday will be Brian Babiars, executive director for Western Arizona Council of Governments; Madeleine Coil, executive director for United Way of Yuma County; Linda Elliott-Nelson, dean of instruction for Arizona Western College; Ross Hieb, Yuma city councilman; and Tara Jackson, president of Arizona Town Hall.

The public will have the opportunity to discuss recommendations. To attend Tuesday's program, reserve a seat by calling the Arizona Town Hall at 1-602-252-9600.