Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction election, 2026
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| Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction |
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| Election details |
| Filing deadline: April 6, 2026 |
| Primary: August 4, 2026 General: November 3, 2026 |
| How to vote |
| Poll times:
6 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| Ballotpedia analysis |
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Arizona is holding an election for superintendent of public instruction on November 3, 2026. The primary is August 4, 2026. The filing deadline is April 6, 2026.
Candidates and election results
Note: The following list includes official candidates only. Ballotpedia defines official candidates as people who:
- Register with a federal or state campaign finance agency before the candidate filing deadline
- Appear on candidate lists released by government election agencies
General election
The primary will occur on August 4, 2026. The general election will occur on November 3, 2026. Additional general election candidates will be added here following the primary.
General election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Stephen Neal Jr. is running in the general election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on November 3, 2026.
Candidate | ||
 | Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels Party)  | |
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| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Teresa Leyba Ruiz is running in the Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 4, 2026.
Candidate | ||
| Teresa Leyba Ruiz | ||
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Incumbent Thomas C. Horne is running in the Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 4, 2026.
Candidate | ||
 | Thomas C. Horne | |
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Candidate profiles
This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.
Party: No Labels Party
Incumbent: No
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "Dr. Stephen Neal Jr., a proud native of Arizona, is running on the Republican ticket as a distinguished educator and compassionate leader. With an impressive career spanning over 35 years in the field of education, he brings a wealth of experience and a heartfelt commitment to inspiring and uplifting our communities. His steadfast dedication to collaboration and social justice shines through in his relentless efforts to empower students from multifaceted backgrounds. He places a particular emphasis on supporting individuals with learning differences, innovative ideas, and at-risk youth, embodying the spirit of change and hope in education."
Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses
Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
Survey responses from candidates in this race
Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
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Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Cultural Harmony: Design and implement a comprehensive curriculum that not only celebrates but also critically engages with wide-ranging cultures and perspectives. This curriculum should include a variety of educational materials—such as literature, art, historical accounts, and contemporary issues—that reflect the rich tapestry of our global society. By fostering open discussions and interactive learning activities, we can create a welcoming environment where all students feel valued, understood, and encouraged to share their own cultural experiences. This approach will promote greater empathy, respect, and collaboration among students, helping to honor and cultivate a rich community.
Support for teachers and staff is crucial for fostering a positive educational environment. This support encompasses fair and competitive compensation that reflects their dedication and expertise, ensuring that educators feel valued for their contributions. Additionally, we implement a strict no-excuses policy to promptly address and eliminate any disruptions that may hinder the learning experience for students. Furthermore, we strive to create a supportive work environment that not only acknowledges but actively promotes the vital role of educators and school staff in shaping student success. This includes providing professional development opportunities, mental health resources, and collaborative spaces for teachers.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
1. Academic Excellence: Implement programs and initiatives to elevate academic standards and ensure students achieve high proficiency levels in core subjects such as mathematics, science, and literacy.
2. Holistic Development: Promote extracurricular activities, arts, and sports to ensure students cultivate well-rounded skills and talents, preparing them for success across various domains.
3. Innovative Learning Environments: Invest in cutting-edge technology and pedagogical methods to create dynamic, engaging learning environments that inspire students to excel.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
The film critiques an education system that fails to recognize talent across socioeconomic backgrounds. Despite his gifts, Jamal is initially underestimated by teachers and peers at the prestigious private school he attends on a scholarship. This reflects the broader societal issue of talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds being overlooked due to systemic barriers. The film emphasizes that achieving true educational fairness requires providing all students with the necessary resources and support.
Moreover, the film addresses cultural appropriation and the representation of diverse voices in literature. As Forrester mentors Jamal, tension arises as they navigate the expectations of a predominantly white academic environment, raising questions about authenticity and storytelling rights.
"Finding Forrester" also challenges the idea of ability-based system, showing that success is not solely based on talent and effort. Jamal faces obstacles like racial prejudice and socioeconomic gaps, highlighting that hard work alone is often insufficient against systemic bias. The film advocates for fair opportunities and recognizes the impact of privilege.
In conclusion, "Finding Forrester" invites viewers to reflect on their biases regarding access to opportunity and success. By showcasing the power of mentorship and embracing differences, it presents a hopeful vision for a more unified society, encouraging us to dismantle systemic barriers and create a world where everyone can reach their full potential.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
1. Transparency in Decision-Making: Embrace the commitment to make all decisions with openness, providing clear justifications for policies and actions. This not only fosters trust but builds a strong foundation of accountability within the community.
2. Ethical Leadership: Strive to exemplify ethical behavior in every facet of your role. Upholding the highest standards of integrity is key to inspiring confidence and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the public good.
3. Stakeholder Engagement: Actively engage with teachers, parents, students, and community members, ensuring their voices resonate in the decision-making process. By valuing diverse perspectives, you can create educational policies that reflect the true needs and aspirations of the community, paving the way for a brighter future.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Integrity is at the core of my character; I believe that ethical leadership fosters trust and accountability in education. I approach challenges with humility, recognizing that listening to various perspectives is crucial for effective decision-making. As a strategic thinker, I develop comprehensive plans that not only address current issues but also anticipate future needs in our educational system.
Effective communication is another strength of mine. I strive to foster an open dialogue with all stakeholders—students, parents, teachers, and community members—ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. My empathetic approach allows me to connect with the students of Arizona on a personal level; I see them as my own and am deeply committed to providing each one with the appropriate resources and support they need to thrive in life.
Transparency is crucial in my leadership style; I believe that open sharing of information helps create an environment of trust and collaboration. I enjoy engaging with educated individuals from various backgrounds, as I find their different opinions and expertise enrich my understanding and broaden my perspective. I see these discussions as opportunities for learning and growth rather than threats.
Above all, my passion for serving others drives my commitment to education. I aim to embody love, kindness, and patience in all interactions, ensuring that every student, teacher, and community member feels valued and supported. By nurturing a positive and inclusive educational environment, I aspire to inspire others to invest in the future of Arizona’s children.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
1. Curriculum Development: I work collaboratively with educators and curriculum specialists to design and enhance curricula that effectively elevate student learning outcomes across array demographics. This involves assessing current educational programs and integrating innovative teaching methodologies to meet the varied needs of our student population.
2. School District Budgets: I assist in the monitoring of school district budgets, ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. By providing suggestions and guidance on fiscal planning, I strive to maximize funding for programs and initiatives that directly benefit student achievement and support educational equity.
3. Legal Compliance: It is essential to ensure that our schools comply with all state and federal education laws. I oversee the implementation of policies that protect students' rights while promoting a safe and welcoming learning environment. This commitment to compliance helps maintain the integrity of our educational system.
4. School Performance Evaluation: I lead efforts to evaluate school performance through comprehensive assessments of student proficiency and achievement. By analyzing performance data, I can identify areas for improvement and support schools in implementing targeted strategies to enhance student success.
5. Leadership and Guidance: I provide ongoing leadership and professional development opportunities for school administrators and teachers. My goal is to empower them to prioritize student needs and create a positive school culture that fosters learning and personal growth.
6. Advocacy for Students and Schools: I actively advocate for the needs of all students and schools at local, state, and nation
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Integrity is essential to the legacy I aim to leave. Living with honesty, morality, and ethical principles in all areas of life, both public & private, guides my actions. I'm dedicated to doing what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Being truthful in my words, fair in my dealings, & accountable for my actions reflects my commitment to a high standard of integrity. By doing so, I hope to earn the trust & respect of others, demonstrating that my faith is not just a set of beliefs but a way of life shaping my decisions.
I desire to leave a legacy of service, believing in using my gifts, talents, and resources to help others and make a positive difference in the world. Volunteering my time, donating to charitable causes, or using my professional skills to serve the State of Arizona allows me to follow in Christ’s footsteps and show compassion and generosity to those in need. By serving others, I hope to create a tangible impact on their lives and contribute to the betterment of society.
I strive to be a leader in my family, church, workplace, and community, guiding others with wisdom, humility, and courage. Setting a positive example, mentoring those around me, and advocating for justice and righteousness are vital aspects of my leadership. I recognize that leadership is about serving others and empowering them to reach their full potential. I hope to inspire others to live with purpose and make a meaningful contribution to the world.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
This experience was transformative, showing me the power of peaceful protest as a means of advocacy. I discovered that one can make their voice heard without resorting to violence and that compassion and solidarity are essential in the pursuit of justice in Arizona.
Together, we demonstrated that standing up for what is right and fair is a collective responsibility. This march taught me that when we unite, regardless of our differences, we can create a profound impact and foster unity in our fight for equality and social justice for everyone.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
In addition to developing a work ethic, I encountered various social dynamics, including instances of mean and cruel behavior from some of my peers. This challenging environment taught me the importance of compassion and resilience, as I realized that responding with kindness was a powerful way to counter negativity. Showing love and support to others, even when faced with hostility, became a fundamental principle for me.
Most importantly, I discovered that true fulfillment in life comes from loving God and serving others. Engaging in acts of kindness and understanding helped me to forge meaningful connections and enriched my experience during those formative years. Ultimately, this combination of work, personal challenges, and spiritual growth has shaped my perspective on what it means to lead a meaningful life.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
As I strive to improve myself, I aim to create an environment that encourages others to recognize and embrace their unique talents, skills, and inner strength. I actively seek opportunities for learning and development through workshops, seminars, and insightful books, all of which deepen my understanding of human potential.
This commitment to mutual growth fosters community and encouragement, allowing us to support one another in our journeys. Together, we create a space where individuals feel safe sharing their experiences, celebrating their progress, and learning from each other. In this way, we thrive individually and cultivate a collective strength that empowers us all.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
The emotional toll can be significant. Empathy is admirable, yet absorbing the pain and struggles of those around you can be exhausting. Worrying excessively about friends, family, or even strangers in the news can lead to sleepless nights and racing thoughts. At times, it feels like carrying the world's weight on your shoulders, which can be draining.
However, I have learned to set boundaries because of my profound caring nature. I prioritize my spiritual life, family, and work, ensuring I also make time to enjoy life. I understand the importance of not overcommitting or taking on more than I can handle, and I strive not to neglect my well-being. As the Superintendent of Public Instruction, learning to say no and safeguarding my time and energy is crucial. This position requires a delicate balance between caring for others and caring for myself.
In conclusion, while caring significantly is invaluable, recognizing potential struggles and taking steps to protect my well-being is essential. By setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and managing expectations, I can navigate challenges and maintain a healthy balance between caring for others and myself as Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Arizona.
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Stephen Neal Jr. (No Labels)
Accountability reinforces transparency, providing essential mechanisms for holding public officials responsible for their financial decisions and actions. Independent audits, oversight committees, and freedom of information laws serve as powerful tools to ensure accountability. These measures allow for the swift detection and correction of errors, irregularities, and illegal activities. When government actions are open to review and officials are answerable for their conduct, it deters misconduct and fortifies public confidence in the integrity of government operations.
The advantages of financial transparency and government accountability extend far beyond curbing corruption; they pave the way for better economic outcomes. When governments reveal their budgets and financial performance, they diminish uncertainty and inspire investment. Investors are more likely to place their trust in countries that demonstrate clear management of public finances and a low risk of corruption. Furthermore, transparency and accountability enhance the efficiency of public services. By shedding light on government operations, inefficiencies and waste become easier to identify, leading to better resource allocation and improved service delivery. Ultimately, financial transparency and government accountability are not just essential; they are transformative for the creation of strong, resilient, and prosperous societies.
Voting information
- See also: Voting in Arizona
Ballotpedia will publish the dates and deadlines related to this election as they are made available.
Past elections
The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2014.
2022
General election
General election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Thomas C. Horne defeated incumbent Kathy Hoffman and Patrick Finerd in the general election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on November 8, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Thomas C. Horne (R) | 50.2 | 1,255,977 |
 | Kathy Hoffman (D) | 49.8 | 1,247,010 | |
 | Patrick Finerd (R) (Write-in) | 0.0 | 213 | |
| Total votes: 2,503,200 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Incumbent Kathy Hoffman advanced from the Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 2, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Kathy Hoffman | 100.0 | 564,099 |
| Total votes: 564,099 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Thomas C. Horne defeated Shiry Sapir, Michelle Udall, Kara Woods, and Tiffany Asch in the Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 2, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Thomas C. Horne | 41.9 | 321,208 |
 | Shiry Sapir | 33.5 | 256,286 | |
 | Michelle Udall | 24.6 | 188,401 | |
| Kara Woods (Write-in) | 0.0 | 201 | ||
| Tiffany Asch (Write-in) | 0.0 | 57 | ||
| Total votes: 766,153 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
Libertarian primary election
Libertarian primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Sheila Reid-Shaver advanced from the Libertarian primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 2, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Sheila Reid-Shaver (Write-in) | 100.0 | 557 |
| Total votes: 557 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
2018
General election
General election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Kathy Hoffman defeated Frank Riggs in the general election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on November 6, 2018.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Kathy Hoffman (D) | 51.6 | 1,185,457 |
 | Frank Riggs (R) | 48.4 | 1,113,781 | |
| Total votes: 2,299,238 (100.00% precincts reporting) | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Kathy Hoffman defeated David Schapira in the Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 28, 2018.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Kathy Hoffman | 52.3 | 254,566 |
 | David Schapira | 47.7 | 232,419 | |
| Total votes: 486,985 (100.00% precincts reporting) | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction
Frank Riggs defeated Robert Branch, incumbent Diane Douglas, Tracy Livingston, and Jonathan Gelbart in the Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 28, 2018.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Frank Riggs | 21.8 | 124,872 |
 | Robert Branch | 21.8 | 124,623 | |
 | Diane Douglas | 21.2 | 121,452 | |
| Tracy Livingston | 20.2 | 115,778 | ||
| Jonathan Gelbart | 14.9 | 85,511 | ||
| Total votes: 572,236 (100.00% precincts reporting) | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
2014
| Superintendent of Arizona, 2014 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
| Republican |  Diane Douglas |
50.5% | 740,273 | |
| Democratic | David Garcia | 49.5% | 724,239 | |
| Total Votes | 1,464,512 | |||
| Election results via Arizona Secretary of State | ||||
Election analysis
This section will contain facts and figures related to this state's elections when those are available.
See also
| Arizona | State Executive Elections | News and Analysis |
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External links
Footnotes
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