The Arizona Promise Program opened new doors for low-income students to attend college tuition-free, but its reach is too narrow, and many eligible students still slip through the cracks. High housing costs, limited outreach, and restrictions on eligibility are holding back thousands of would-be scholars.

Brett’s plan to expand the Promise Scholarship transforms it into a true statewide commitment, one that empowers students from all backgrounds to pursue higher education and career success:

Broaden Eligibility Beyond Pell‑Grant Students: The Arizona Promise Program currently fills the gap between Pell grants and tuition for first‑time, full‑time students. Qualifying students must be Pell‑eligible and enroll immediately after high school.

• Brett will expand eligibility to include lower‑middle‑income families who don’t qualify for Pell but still can’t afford tuition.

• He will also open the program to part‑time students, adult learners, and students at community colleges so non‑traditional learners can benefit.

Cover More than Tuition and Fees: The current program covers only tuition and mandatory fees. Housing, books, meals, and transportation remain major barriers to completion.

• Brett will advocate for a “Promise Plus” model that provides a stipend for living expenses, particularly for first‑generation students and those from rural or high‑poverty areas.

This expanded program could be funded by increasing the State Land Trust distribution, allocating general funds, or creating an endowment.

Strengthen Outreach, Support, and Accountability: Many eligible students never benefit from the Promise Program because they don’t complete the FAFSA or don’t know about the opportunity.

• Brett will direct high schools and community organizations to provide FAFSA completion assistance and college‑planning workshops.

• He will also mandate that universities report outcomes, such as graduation rates and job placement, for Promise recipients, ensuring the program delivers on its promise to expand educational attainment.