Voices contributor

Joe Barba

Joe Barba is Senior Director of Government Affairs at First Things First, Arizona's early childhood agency, leading its policy and government relations work. He brings over a decade of experience advancing pragmatic solutions for children & families.

1 essay on Arizona Talks Voices. Back to all Voices →

Joe Barba

May 14, 2026 4 min read

If Arizona wants better education outcomes, we must start earlier

Education doesn't start in kindergarten. If Arizona wants stronger schools, a stable workforce, and a healthier economy, we have to take the years before kindergarten seriously.

Early Childhood Education

If Arizona wants better education outcomes, we must start earlier