PHX Reporter

Arizona State Rep. Matt Gress (R-4) announced a new tuition scholarship program for spouses and children of law enforcement officers and correctional officers in the state. 

The program, called the Spouses and Dependents of Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers Tuition Scholarship, is available to dependents under the age of 27 or spouses of a law enforcement or correctional officer. Other requirements include being enrolled at an Arizona institute, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and submitting required documents to prove their eligibility. 

The tuition scholarship will cover tuition and required fees at Arizona higher education institutions, after the application of any other financial aid. Gress secured funding for the program in last year’s budget. 

“Behind every badge is a family offering support to their hero,” said Gress. “Today, we stand by them, honoring their sacrifice and service with this important new tuition scholarship. This program is more than financial assistance; it’s a bridge to a brighter future for the families of those who’ve dedicated their lives to our safety.”

Applications for the program open March 15, available online. Scholarships are given on a first come, first serve basis.

Born in Oklahoma, Matt Gress now lives in Arizona. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and an M.P.A. from Syracuse University. Before being elected to the state legislature in 2022, he worked as a public school teacher, a faculty associate at Arizona State University, a budget analyst at the Arizona State Capitol, and a budget chief in the Arizona Governor’s Office.

Gress is running for Arizona State Representative (District 4) in the state's Nov. 5, 2024 general election.