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Shocking Decline in Academic Scores Revealed: Are Our Schools Failing?

Recent data from the National Assessment of Academic Progress (NAEP), also known as the “Nation’s Report Card,” reveals a significant decline in reading and math scores for 13-year-olds. The results highlight the academic failures caused by COVID lockdowns and school closures. The average scores in reading have dropped to levels last observed in the 1970s, […]

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Embracing the Spirit of Independence

On this day of remembrance, let us honor those who have served and continue to serve our country, protecting the freedom and rights we hold dear.

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Arizona Conservatism Culture Domestic Policy Government Spending Legal and Judicial Political Thought Progressivism Public Opinion The Constitution Transparency

Arizona Daily Star: It’s wrong to force Arizonans to pay for government lobbying

Originally published at tucson.com on June 29, 2023. As the smackdown over school choice in Arizona intensifies, taxpayers in the Grand Canyon State should know that they’re paying for both attacks on and defenses of the Empowerment Scholarship Account Program. The Arizona School Boards Association charges that “vouchers” impose “unsustainable” costs and are “a massive blow to […]

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SPPI President, Patrick Brenner, to Speak at Independent Women’s Forum Panel

We are thrilled to announce that Patrick Brenner, president of the Southwest Public Policy Institute (SPPI), will be representing SPPI as a distinguished panelist at the Independent Women’s Forum. The panel will test a simple, powerful idea: how do we ensure fair lending policies for vulnerable Americans; and will bring together experts to address the […]

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A 3-Letter Word: J-O-B-S

Our region’s employment boom continues.

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In which Southwest states do residents pay the most sales tax?

New Mexico and Nevada lead the region, while Oklahoma and Utah report the lowest sales tax burdens.

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Haaland v. Brackeen: Tribal Sovereignty Wins

The Supreme Court of the United States affirms a significant victory for tribal sovereignty, protecting the cultural identity of Native Americans.

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Arizona Budget and Spending Conservatism Domestic Policy Education Government Spending Legal and Judicial Political Thought Progressivism Public Opinion Top Issues Updates

Embracing Universal School Choice: A Win-Win Solution for Arizona Education

Embracing universal school choice can provide more funding for students at a lower cost to taxpayers, offering diverse educational opportunities and debunking misconceptions about its impact on public schools.

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SPPI Employment Index: November-April

The good times roll on — how long can they last?

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SPPI Partners with Holtec International to Drive Innovation in Energy and Public Policy

The two organizations forge a strategic partnership to drive innovation in energy and public policy, aiming to improve the quality of life in the American Southwest and promote sustainable solutions.