(Photo by Alexandra Olgin - KJZZ)

Diane Douglas

State schools chief Diane Douglas said she is hopeful, but skeptical, of the current state of education in Arizona. She addressed the House Education Committee on Wednesday.

Douglas said her biggest concern is consistent funding. If voters approve the state land trust proposal in May, it would add about $3.5 billion to K-12 schools, but that money would stop in 10 years. A sales tax already in place that gives millions to schools ends in five years. 

"For education, it is too early to tell if we are only spending enough money to settle a lawsuit and temporarily placate the public, or if we are seriously taking the first step to building the best education system in the nation, right here in Arizona," said Douglas.

Douglas said she isn't taking a public position on the funding proposal, but always supports more money for schools. She said she's also looking forward to hearing recommendations from a team appointed by the governor to simplify the school finance formula.