Phoenix, AZ – Governor Katie Hobbs today announced the appointment of Anna Tovar to the State Board of Education.

“Anna’s perspective as an educator and dedicated public servant makes her the ideal person to join the State Board of Education,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “With her leadership and experience as an educator and mentor, I’m confident that the Board will be well positioned to protect public education and ensure every Arizona student has the tools they need to thrive.”

“I have been a champion of the public school system my entire career. I started out as a kindergarten teacher in the Tolleson Elementary School District and I believe strong public schools are critical for the future of Arizona,” said Anna Tovar. “I thank Governor Hobbs for the opportunity to serve on the State Board of Education. I am excited to get to work for our students, parents, and educators.”

Commissioner Tovar was elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2020, becoming the first Latina to hold statewide office. Previously, she was a teacher at the Tolleson Elementary School District and served on the Tolleson City Council for more than seven years. She was Vice Mayor for two years before joining the House of Representatives, where she was Minority Whip. She was elected to the Senate to serve for Legislative District 19 in 2013 and was the Senate Minority Leader. In 2016, Anna was elected Mayor of the City of Tolleson, the first woman to hold the office. During her time as mayor, Anna worked to ensure that all citizens of Tolleson had the opportunity to obtain a quality education and good-paying jobs.

The State Board of Education is an 11-member board charged with regulating and developing rules concerning primary and secondary public education in the state.