Dr. Stephen Neal Jr.

Testimonials

Reflections from families, educators, and community members who know Dr. Neal.

Read their words
Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. smiling at a community gathering
Dr. Stephen Neal Jr.
Empower. Educate. Elevate.

In the words of those who know him.

Community voices

Their words. Their experiences.

Ten personal testimonials about Dr. Neal’s work, service, and support.

Dr. Neal is a reliable, supportive person who consistently encourages the younger generation to participate in sports and extracurricular activities that keep them on a safe, positive path for their future. Dr. Neal has also supported my family during school situations that may seem simple to handle, but not everyone is sincere, transparent, and honest enough to stand by the truth, no matter what.

M.Goodyear, AZ

Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. has been a tremendous positive influence in my life and ministry. He has contributed greatly to my well-being as a minister by providing wise counsel, guidance, leadership, and unwavering support to me and my family. His outstanding character, integrity, and genuine concern for others are truly admirable. I am grateful for his encouragement and the meaningful impact he continues to have on my life and ministry. I am so grateful to call him a friend.

Reverend Logan-Dixon

I was honored to interview Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. on the Fortis Fémina Radio Show and was deeply inspired by his genuine love and concern for our youth. Having personally experienced many of the struggles young people and our education system face, he understands that meaningful change must begin at the roots. His passion for education, character, faith, families, and the well-being of children reflects a leader committed to building a stronger future for Arizona’s youth.

Coco GonzalezVP / Producer & Host of Fortis Femina radio Show · Gilbert, AZ

Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. has made a meaningful impact through his leadership, dedication, and genuine commitment to others. His passion for serving children, families, schools, and the community is evident in the way he encourages and inspires those around him. Dr. Neal leads with integrity, compassion, and a true desire to make a positive difference. His influence has touched many lives, and our community is better because of his service and leadership.

Anonymous

Dr. Neal and I work together at Westview High School. He was the School Psychologist, and I was the Special Education Teacher/Case Manager. I had a student-athlete assigned to my caseload who was a great basketball player. Although he struggled academically, Dr. Neal and I developed a plan to help him improve his grades while keeping him eligible to play basketball. With the help of Dr. Neal and me, this student was able to get a D1 offer to play basketball. He thank Dr. Neal and I for showing him how to advocate for himself, come up with learning strategies, recognizing when to utilize his accommodation/modifications and understanding basketball plays better. This is an example of great teamwork and Dr. Neal's expertise with different types of students with IEPs. Dr. Neal is Phenomenal!

Mrs. HenryEducational Professional

I am writing to express my strong support for Dr. Neal for State Superintendent of Education.

Throughout his career as a school psychologist in the Goodyear, Avondale, and Surprise school districts, Dr. Neal has worked closely with local and state leadership teams to advocate for children's and parents' rights. He is dedicated to collaborating with all parties involved in a student's education and is a passionate champion for both special education students and those who require support outside of special education settings.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Neal is actively involved in his local church and serves his community by coaching local, high school, and international sports teams. He leads by example, believing that no task is beneath him, and consistently does whatever it takes to ensure the job is done right.

Because of his dedication, experience, and strong leadership, I fully endorse Dr. Neal for State Superintendent of Education.

RM

Dr. Neal’s positive impact has always been felt in everything he associates himself with. I have known Dr. Neal for 31 years. I was his teammate in high school and college, and I have been truly blessed to know him and be inspired by his leadership on and off the field. Dr. Neal is intentional, hardworking, and cares deeply about his family, friends, profession, education, and the state of Arizona!

MCS

It has been my pleasure to speak with and meet Dr. Neal on several occasions. He is knowledgeable and well-spoken regarding issues that impact children in Arizona from an educational perspective. His experience working now within the public education sector speaks for itself. If you have the opportunity to meet with and/or listen to him, he can help you understand what needs to happen within state educational systems; it would be time well spent.

PBUAvondale, AZ

I had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Stephen Neal on a special education team. His deep knowledge of special education law is matched by an unwavering passion for advocating for students and families. Dr. Neal goes beyond his role, working directly with teachers, support staff, and students to develop meaningful interventions and improve outcomes. He has the courage to advocate for what is right, the humility to collaborate, and a genuine commitment to vulnerable students. His leadership, integrity, and passion make him an exceptional educator and advocate.

RSMaricopa, AZ

Dear Dr. Neal,

I just want you to know how deeply grateful I am for everything you have done for my grandson. Your support has meant more to me than I can truly put into words.

Because of his learning disability, making sure he receives the services and accommodations he needs at school can be overwhelming. But year after year, you have helped me understand his IEP, make sure his needs are being addressed, and fight to ensure he does not lose the services that are so important to him.

What means the most to me is that you take the time to explain things to me in plain English. You help me understand what I should be asking and give me the confidence to speak up and advocate for him. You have helped me feel like I am not alone in this fight.

It is such a blessing to have someone who genuinely cares about a child's future and is willing to stand beside their family to make sure that child is not overlooked or left behind.

Thank you for your patience, your knowledge, your time, and most of all, your heart. I will always be grateful for the role you have played in protecting and supporting my grandson’s education.

You truly have been a blessing to our family, and I appreciate you more than you know.

J. R.Buckeye, AZ