Arizona’s travel and tourism industry is operating in a new landscape driven by sustained economic challenges, evolving demographics, emerging technology and shifts in consumer travel patterns. Thus the creation and importance of its 5-Year Strategic Plan is to lay the foundation upon which our agency will take the lead and assist in the continued growth and prosperity of our industry over the next five years, further contributing to the overall economic development of the state.

The travel and tourism industry matters to Arizona’s economic health and vitality.  As one of Arizona’s pillar industries, tourism has been integral to the economic growth and development of the Grand Canyon State shaping it into the amazing destination that it is today. This industry has generated thousands of jobs, billions of dollars in earnings and billions of dollars in tax revenue, all of which contribute to the quality of life for each and every Arizonan.

More than one in 10 Arizona public high school students have disabilities. One-third of these youth remain unengaged in work or education following graduation, creating a significant public policy challenge for the state. Why is this so? This report shares findings from 2014 surveys and focus groups conducted with youth and families as well as interviews with education leaders across the state. These responses highlight how Arizona schools and families are preparing these youth, and what the state still needs to do to ensure youth with disabilities have a role to play in Arizona’s job market.

Bullying and violence in K-12 schools have been in the policy spotlight in Arizona for almost a decade. However, current indicators and recent traumatic events show that a range of anti-social behaviors on school campuses remain a major threat to student well-being and learning. This briefing was distributed at panel discussion on bullying and safe school environments, focusing on such issues.