More schools bypass hybrid option for full re-openings

Click here for updates 9/23 and forward
Updated 9/22: More school districts are moving past COVID-19 public health benchmarks’ recommendations for hybrid re-openings when cases are moderate in their communities in favor of fully re-opening for all students, The Arizona Republic reports.
More school districts buck state COVID-19 metrics in favor of fully reopening https://t.co/69ESbCbdpu
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 22, 2020
Gilbert Public Schools welcomes back students and reminds them to follow protocols to keep healthy.
Paradise Valley Schools leaders gave Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman a tour of the Boys & Girls Club at Palomino Elementary School and shared their health & safety guidelines.
Yesterday, Superintendent @kathyhoffman_az, Superintendent @DrJesseWelsh, Principal Lee, and Principal Robles toured @ClubzonaBGC at Palomino ES. In partnership with #PVSchools, the Club follows strict health & safety guidelines to support students on their educational journey. pic.twitter.com/iyc4MYxyPd
— PVSchools (@pvschools) September 22, 2020
Roosevelt School District Supt. Dr. Quintin Boyce let students’ families know today that based on the incidence of COVID-19 in their communities that they will continue virtual learning until Nov. 6.
Important Message from the Superintendent, Dr. Quintin Boyce on returning to school. Visit: https://t.co/9Gvm0AXm29 to read the message. pic.twitter.com/uyBvsSuLT2
— RSD No. 66 (@RSDNo66) September 22, 2020
J.O. Combs Unified School District counselors and social workers share what brings them to school each day.
The last few months have brought lots of uncertainty and change, but one constant that remains is how much #CombsCares. Just take a look at what some of our counselors and social workers shared when asked why they show up each day for our students. #ChooseCombs pic.twitter.com/FygPzW6oVW
— JOCombsUSD (@JOCombsUSD) September 22, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 214,846 today from 214,251 yesterday, and 5,498 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Spread Kindness. Not Covid-19. pic.twitter.com/kblqabaIKY
— Tolleson Elementary School District (@TollesonESD) September 22, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 140,314 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 24,798 in Pima County, 12,594 in Yuma County, 10,397 in Pinal County, 5,751 in Navajo County, 3,914 in Mohave County, 3,777 in Coconino County, 3,462 in Apache County, 2,824 in Santa Cruz County, 2,489 in Yavapai County, 1,887 in Cochise County, 1,247 in Gila County, 797 in Graham County, 536 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Earlier this month, @NAU launched a free, saliva-based COVID-19 testing site at the University Union Fieldhouse, where each week, faculty, staff and students are randomly selected to test as part of the university’s ongoing mitigation strategy. Learn more: https://t.co/2FGOS9h677 pic.twitter.com/o1aXJTh3JA
— Arizona Board of Regents (@AZRegents) September 22, 2020
Interactive Graphic: (Hover over counties and boxes for more info)
Summary
These four states, including Arizona and Minnesota are back on New York quarantine list https://t.co/cX8Xw7PfL6
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 22, 2020
Queen Creek Unified School District art teacher Aly Thomas talks about how students sharing and telling the story behind their art helps them become more creative and willing to tackle new ideas.
Alhambra Elementary School District‘s fourth-grade teacher was named Ms Palacios was honored as the D-backs most valuable teacher and received a $5,000 grant for her classroom courtesy of the D-backs and Raytheon Missile and Defense.
#DbacksGiveBack to Education Week continues!@escobardelapica surprised this year’s Most Valuable Teacher at Chase Field! Ms. Palacios also received a $5,000 grant for her classroom.
— D-backs Give Back (@DbacksGiveBack) September 22, 2020
For more about the program supported by @RaytheonDefense: https://t.co/nAHrzhNmSZ pic.twitter.com/3P6jWVg6is
It’s almost time for high school seniors and their families to fill out the FAFSA, here’s some steps to get started on and a help line too.
The #FAFSA will open soon. Let’s go over some steps: First, make your FSA ID and have a #parent make one too. Make sure your info matches what’s on your SSN card. Text me if you need help: 602-786-8171 pic.twitter.com/tTjGIl7uKq
— Benji FAFSA (@BenjiFafsa) September 22, 2020
Balsz School District encourages students to use a resource hub created just for them to help with their learning.
Students of the #BalszSchoolDistrict, we have a resource hub just for you! Visit the link in our bio to access your #Google Classroom and Drive links, tech tutorials, and so much more. Explore your resource hub today! https://t.co/e4GjEfI3hi pic.twitter.com/gNlaeIC3Rl
— Balsz SD (@BalszSD) September 21, 2020
Higley Unified encourages students and families to get enough sleep to help their emotional and physical health.
It’s time for our #WellnessWednesday tip of the week!
— Higley Schools (@higleydistrict) September 16, 2020
“Make sleep part of your self-care routine. Sleep can have a huge effect on how you feel both emotionally and physically. Not getting enough can even cause major health issues. ”
Source:https://t.co/wGuf1QdifW pic.twitter.com/dqRPNrHpYh
Phoenix College offers a drive-through food pantry for students by appointment with help from St. Mary’s Food Bank.
PC is having multiple food pantry dates (see website below)! The next drive thru event is on tomorrow! See you there. #pcproud #foodpantry @StMarysFoodBank https://t.co/OpASiz1SX2 pic.twitter.com/VCRSuX0FAW
— Phoenix College (@PhoenixCollege) September 22, 2020
Pendergast Elementary School District reminds the community it’s the first day of Fall.
Even though our high temperature is about 100°, today is the first day of Fall! Today is also the Autumnal Equinox, the day every September when the tilt of the Earth, with respect to the Sun, is 0° and because of this the daytime and the nighttime are almost equal lengths. pic.twitter.com/5J5ExuU4da
— PESD92 (@PESD92) September 22, 2020
The National Head Start Association shares how local programs which continued serving the community during the COVID-19 pandemic are facing 15 to 30 percent increases in operating costs.
Especially now, as local programs face 15-30% increases in operating costs—amounting to $1.7B nationwide—it is the #HeadStart community’s advocacy and the work of steadfast, strategic leaders like @WhipClyburn who make our commitment to children and families possible. #FLI20
— National Head Start Association (@NatlHeadStart) September 22, 2020
Florence Unified Teacher Ms. Ryba will receive $500 from APS‘ Supply My Class!
Congratulations to Lisa Ryba, a 2nd grade teacher at Walker Butte Leadership School, who WON $500 today from Supply My Class. @walkerbutte #WelcomeSafeConnected pic.twitter.com/EQ7iE3suIv
— Florence Unified (@Florenceusd) September 17, 2020
Update your voter registration or register to vote today as part of National Voter Registration Day!
It’s #NationalVoterRegistrationDay! Visit https://t.co/fUw8UPL6Yk to register to vote or update your voter registration. pic.twitter.com/d3nsjLGMXY
— Secretary Katie Hobbs (@SecretaryHobbs) September 22, 2020
Peoria Unified shares changes to its open enrollment process.
Peoria Unified has a new open enrollment policy. Check out the details on our district’s website https://t.co/FnDrIGDqhp pic.twitter.com/V4oi7a22Dw
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) September 22, 2020
The U.S. House of Representatives paused a vote on a bill to fund the government through Dec. 11, while bipartisan congressional leaders discussed whether to include farm aid sought by President Donald Trump, Reuters says.
U.S. House pauses vote on bill to fund government and avoid shutdown https://t.co/qu3peBpHXc pic.twitter.com/0oeYhSxuhr
— Reuters (@Reuters) September 22, 2020
Updated 9/21: More Arizona students started in-person classes today, while others continued learning online from home.
Peoria Unified School District welcomed back kindergartners through second-graders today.
This morning we welcomed back our K-2 students! Show your #PeoriaUnifiedPride and share your #ReturntoSchool photos in the comment section below. We can’t wait to see the rest of our Peoria Unified students next week! pic.twitter.com/u12uk98gFE
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) September 21, 2020
Hear why these Dysart Unified School District high school students say wearing a mask is important.
Welcome back to all students and staff! Let’s have a #DysartExtraordinary year! Students from our four high schools came together to share why it’s important to remember to #MaskUp and stay safe! pic.twitter.com/vRGNViCWCw
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 21, 2020
Mesa Public Schools reminds families that they’re doing things to ensure students safety at school and as they ride the school bus.
Our mitigation plan involves important health and safety protocols implemented throughout our students’ school days, including their journey to and from school. Health and safety guidelines continue on our school buses. Learn more about bus safety: https://t.co/Qbv64sWIn0. pic.twitter.com/CGQ5OwrfIG
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) September 18, 2020
Creighton Elementary School District asks families to complete a survey for each one of their children as they plan to return to an in-person learning model.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 214,251 today from 214,018 yesterday, and 5,478 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 140,006 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 24,647 in Pima County, 12,580 in Yuma County, 10,375 in Pinal County, 5,747 in Navajo County, 3,895 in Mohave County, 3,451 in Apache County, 3,749 in Coconino County, 2,820 in Santa Cruz County, 2,480 in Yavapai County, 1,881 in Cochise County, 1,233 in Gila County, 793 in Graham County, 535 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
University of Arizona will create a call center for people with questions or concerns about COVID-19.
MORE: @uarizona plans to put up a call center for those with questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 matters. pic.twitter.com/Q5tfv8XvsW
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) September 21, 2020
Pendergast Elementary School District says when students see celebrities who won their heritage, it offers them hope.
Prenda, a company that says it’s not a schoo,l gets money meant for charter and private schools, says The Arizona Republic.
This company says it’s ‘not a school’ and has no teachers. But it gets millions meant for charter, private schools https://t.co/pKiubavaFe via @azcentral
— Mary Jo Pitzl (@maryjpitzl) September 21, 2020
Kayenta Unified School District is offering a curbside library book program to encourage students to read outside of the classroom.

Yuma Elementary School District 1‘s G.W. Carver Elementary School students, staff and families share pictures on Mexican Independence Day.
Wonderful celebration by Carver students and staff! https://t.co/YJsYuCbvhi
— Yuma District 1 (@YumaDistrict1) September 18, 2020
Take a look at some of the images that Peoria Unified students created these images for Arts in Education Week.
.@PeoriaUnified11 @FoothillsEl students Oriana M. 7th grade, Zeke F. 3rd grade & Delsen F. Kindergarten all created incredible images for “Masterpiece Monday” during Arts in Education week! #BecauseOfArtsEd students are honing their observational skills & creating in new ways pic.twitter.com/rqLoxFdEZ4
— Peoria Arts Ed (@PeoriaArtsEd) September 18, 2020
Million Girls Moonshot seeks to boost STEM learning for girls across the country.
We are excited to partner with @afterschool4all in this effort to engage one million more girls in #STEM through hands-on, immersive #STEMlearning experiences in #Afterschool and summer programs. #MillionGirlsMoonshot #ThisIsAfterschool #AfterschoolWorks https://t.co/2p1DanQLsH
— Million Girls Moonshot (@girlsmoonshot) September 21, 2020
Ajo Unified School District is looking for paraprofessionals/teacher’s aide to work part time with students for 5 or 5-1/2 hours per day.
Dysart Unified High School District celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and their Thompson Ranch Elementary School Ballet Folklorico club.
It’s #HispanicHeritageMonth! One of our unique programs dedicated to recognizing hispanic culture is our talented @TRESJaguars Ballet Folklorico club. The goal is to promote pride in Mexican cultural heritage & promote self esteem through performing Mexican folk dances. pic.twitter.com/MQYLDKDmGx
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 18, 2020
Baboquivari Unified School District Governing Board members sent out this message to their community about the passing of two key members of their school community.
Mesa Public Schools honors Brimhall/Franklin Junior High Principal Jeff Abrams for being named an exemplary principal by Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson.
Congratulations to Franklin at Brimhall/Franklin Junior High Principal Jeff Abrams. He has just been named the newest Maricopa County Exemplary Principal by @mcschoolsup Steve Watson! pic.twitter.com/RxkOIjj8kY
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) September 21, 2020
Help out children in shelters and foster care by donating to a pajamas drive being held this week.
WANT TO HELP? Pajamas drive held this week for children in shelters, foster care >> https://t.co/tlX7ECmGBz pic.twitter.com/No1t7e5Ifa
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) September 21, 2020
Updated 9/17: Watch it now: Gov. Doug Ducey discusses unemployment, the 2020 Census and COVID-19 during a media briefing today.
“Arizona’s unemployment number dropped by nearly half last month, A really good sign that people are getting back to work,” Gov. Ducey said to begin the media briefing.
“Last month, we were at 10.5 percent unemployment, today we’re at 5.9 percent. The largest drop in unemployment in modern history,” Gov. Ducey said. “The rebound is across the board.”
The unemployment rate in Arizona fell from 10.7% to 5.9% in August according to the state Office of Economic Opportunity but the unemployment picture is not so rosy as the numbers say.https://t.co/2ZCe7Mw4O0
— AZPM (@azpublicmedia) September 18, 2020
Out of Arizona’s 7.2 million in population, about 1.3 million have received unemployment insurance benefits totaling more than $10.3 billion from the Arizona Department of Economic Security during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Ducey said.
“People have been discouraged throughout the pandemic, but our economy is coming back,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Ducey said the state is at 88.9 percent of people responding to the census, and he told Arizonans that completing the 2020 Census is “the civic duty of every household in the country.”
“With 13 days left to go, we have one clear message for all Arizonans. If you haven’t completed your census, do so now,” Gov. Ducey said. “You matter and you deserve to be counted.”
Gov. Ducey encouraged Arizonans to complete the 2020 Census online, by phone or by mail.
Statewide COVID-19 numbers show increase
The Arizona Department of Health Services reported a substantial increase in COVID-19 cases today, but Director Dr. Cara Christ says it does not mean we’re seeing a surge after Labor Day.
Instead, the increase is due to results from a newly approved antigen test and today’s results and those for the next several days will include results from those tests done over the past few months.
LATEST NUMBERS: The state is reporting 1,753 new #COVID19 cases and 38 new deaths. @AZDHS says today’s big number includes results from a new kind of test.
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) September 17, 2020
MORE INFO: https://t.co/6yR9UQ5ZZT pic.twitter.com/fgvoooJHvW
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 211,660 today from 209,907 yesterday, and 5,409 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today’s labs include a large upload of PCR tests from ASU through ELR, resulting in the highest number of labs reported to date. (2/4)
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 17, 2020
Our Data Dashboard has been updated to combine antigen and PCR tests into “COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests” to replace “COVID-19 PCR Tests.” Get more information in today’s blog post: https://t.co/eoaAFMxRex (4/4)
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 17, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 139,051 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 23,563 in Pima County, 12,472 in Yuma County, 10,263 in Pinal County, 5,733 in Navajo County, 3,817 in Mohave County, 3,417 in Apache County, 3,644 in Coconino County, 2,801 in Santa Cruz County, 2,442 in Yavapai County, 1,872 in Cochise County, 1,208 in Gila County, 786 in Graham County, 530 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
During his media briefing, Gov. Ducey said, “We’ve got the largest capacity of ICU beds available since we began to keep that data.”
“Of course, we don’t know what the future holds. We don’t want to let our guard down. We want to remain vigilant,” Gov. Ducey said.
“But we certainly like where the data for Arizona is today with our economy opened across the state, with kids getting back into a classroom in front of a teacher, with our universities operating and with our athletic directors and university presidents making final decisions on whether we’re going to kick off on college football,” Gov. Ducey said.
“This is all much better than where we were in July and August,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Ducey said goal is to protect lives and livelihoods going foward and encouraged everyone to get a flu vaccine.
What’s new for schools
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman says despite the challenges of online learning students and teachers show amazing resiliency and compassion.
Noah Grahmann, a high school music student at @FlagstaffUSD1, shared an in-depth look into a day un his life during distance learning. Despite the challenges, resiliency and compassion shine through in this new period of learning. ⬇️ https://t.co/TxvIRYDmsZ
— Kathy Hoffman (@kathyhoffman_az) September 18, 2020
First Things First Arizona provides an easy way for Spanish-speaking parents to find early childhood programs in their neighborhoods.
Encuentre Servicios, a companion to our #FindProgramsAZ tool, provides an easy way for Spanish-speaking parents and caregivers to find no-cost #earlychildhood programs in their community. Check it out! #AZFTFhttps://t.co/1xVMYrUeiD
— First Things First (@AZFTF) September 18, 2020
SMAC adjusts a metric to let Arizona high school football season begin.
SMAC adjusts metric to clear path for start of Arizona HS football season https://t.co/5GAb725tgB via @azcentral
— Richard Obert (@azc_obert) September 17, 2020
Culturally responsive science teaching engages students and lets them share their understanding and community-based knowledge, WestEd says.
Jenny Sarna, Director of @NextGenScience, speaks to the importance of culturally-responsive #science teaching and the learning benefits that happen when students are invited to share prior understanding, observations & community-based knowledge #edchat #NGSS 😄 https://t.co/RvxqdIEfg4
— WestEd (@WestEd) September 18, 2020
Deer Valley Unified‘s recognizes students for their learning.
Getting ready to welcome our Vikings back to campus 💙 @DVUSD @m_weinman pic.twitter.com/PJffLMQ3Xj
— Village Meadows (@Village_Meadows) September 17, 2020
Cronkite School reminds Arizona State University students there are many ways to meet new friends virtually and in person.
We may be spending a lot more time at home, but there are still ways to connect with fellow #SunDevils! Here are 5️⃣ tips you can use to meet new friends — in person and virtually. https://t.co/tr50mnngLo pic.twitter.com/Ee1386evht
— Cronkite School (@Cronkite_ASU) September 18, 2020
Assignments that emphasize student ownership will encourage engagement and persistence, edutopia says.
Phrases that emphasize “student ownership, engagement, and intrinsic motivation” will help students see learning as its own reward. https://t.co/pX07oFXJsi
— edutopia (@edutopia) September 18, 2020
Virtual learning has presented new challenges for deaf and hard of hearing students, Arizona PBS says.
The transition to virtual learning has been difficult for students + parents alike. But for deaf and hard of hearing students, barriers in communication have presented new challenges: https://t.co/LrR96740N8 pic.twitter.com/8LyZ6MRq4D
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) September 18, 2020
Turn bedtime stories into a foundation for your child’s reading success, Excel in Ed says.
What is the greatest
— ExcelinEd (@ExcelinEd) September 17, 2020
gift a parent can give? The gift of literacy. Turn your child’s bedtime story into a foundation for success. #EarlyLiteracy #K3Reading #NationalLiteracyMonth pic.twitter.com/lSXZVRh7s6
Kyrene Schools honors IB middle years teacher and student of the year.
We are proud to share that Kyrene M.S. took home not one, but two awards from @AZIBschools. Deb Rosenblum was named IB Middle Years Program Teacher of the Year & 8th grade student Quinn Sacalis was named Student of the Year. Congratulations to KMS on this outstanding achievement. pic.twitter.com/GtZVEaR04C
— KyreneSchools (@KyreneSchools) September 18, 2020
Maricopa Community Colleges invites students to their virtual conference and college fair on Saturday.
Calling all future college students! Join us Saturday for a Virtual Conference & College Fair featuring booths from @EMCC_Official, @mesacc, and @gccaz. Take a virtual tour, connect with admissions reps, and begin the registration process.
— Maricopa Community Colleges (@mcccd) September 17, 2020
Learn more👉 https://t.co/5lJp5dYtt0 pic.twitter.com/a4aO5qQyNY
Barry Goldwater High School lets students know they can’t wait to have them back on campus.
Get your masks ready Bulldogs— we are very excited to welcome you back to class in person!!! #Greatnesswithin #BULLDOGSTRONG @DVUSD @BghsIb @BGHSSTUGO @bghsdawg pic.twitter.com/P5kgA64UtA
— Barry Goldwater High (@BGHS_DVUSD) September 17, 2020
Deer Valley Unified School District‘s online college math students show some of their futuristic home floor plans.
In College Math my @DVOnlineProgram students designed futuristic houses as we started our Geometry unit. It was super interesting to see how students problem solved possible population increases, decrease of livable space and more. @DVUSD pic.twitter.com/0QKxJkvMCy
— Katie Parrott (@mathyparrott) September 17, 2020
University of Arizona says it will end its furlough plan sooner than they thought.
UA announced furlough plan will be ended sooner than expected. https://t.co/XDD2P8ubPy
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) September 18, 2020
Updated 9/16: Some students are back at their schools, while others continue online learning, but many parents wonder if COVID-19 cases increase will schools close again?
If COVID-19 cases increase, will Arizona schools have to close again? Here’s what health officials say https://t.co/Nw4uW8VQhq
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 16, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 209,907 today from 209,209 yesterday, and 5,371 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
#COVID19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms & do not know that they are infected. Masks worn over the mouth AND nose can help prevent people who have COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others. https://t.co/hu3M1p8aT7 pic.twitter.com/XhPOED3lZZ
— HHS.gov (@HHSGov) September 16, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 138,151 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,887 in Pima County, 12,440 in Yuma County, 10,232 in Pinal County, 5,718 in Navajo County, 3,811 in Mohave County, 3,410 in Apache County, 3,624 in Coconino County, 2,794 in Santa Cruz County, 2,437 in Yavapai County, 1,862 in Cochise County, 1,176 in Gila County, 776 in Graham County, 528 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Sunnyside Unified School District Foundation is seeking to raise $50,000 to support students, teachers and Sunnyside Unified families.
Sunnyside Unified School District Foundation is working to raise $50,000 to support students, teachers, and SUSD families. If you would like to donate, please visit https://t.co/7NJVBytE0R.
— Sunnyside Unified School District (@sunnysideusd) September 17, 2020
Learning in Zoom is not the same as learning in person to your brain, EdSurge says.
“Zoom isn’t in real time, even though it seems like it is. Our brains subconsciously pick up on the fact that things aren’t quite right.” #k12 #edchat https://t.co/X9YTzEGngG
— EdSurge (@EdSurge) September 15, 2020
Tolleson Union High School District invites families to take part in a virtual Future Sun Devil Day for Arizona State University on Saturday Sept. 19.
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) September 17, 2020
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) September 17, 2020
Arizona State University‘s President Dr. Michael Crow says increased enrollment staved off staff reductions.
JUST IN: Arizona State University doesn’t expect to furlough or cut pay for its faculty and staff, diverging from financial cutbacks implemented at the other two state universities.
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 17, 2020
https://t.co/ZHNU7AYloa
Updated 9/15: While more Arizona students are returning to in-person classes, many students continue learning online.
The first day back on campus for Modified In-Person learning was a success! Here are some highlights from our A group yesterday. We can’t wait to see the B group today! pic.twitter.com/kHFHpMlrXf
— Christy Cuddy (@christy_cuddy) September 15, 2020
First day of modified in person class and we were labbing with our remote classmates. It was different but still biotech 🥼🧪👩🔬 pic.twitter.com/kYgVTN0Jsk
— RM Biotechnology (@rmhsbiotech) September 15, 2020
See how these Chandler Unified School District teachers make online learning fun and meaningful.
#SchoolSpotlight @BogleBulldogs “We are very proud of the commitment our teachers are making on a daily basis to make virtual learning a meaningful, fun, and creative method for students to access junior high curriculum.” – Nathan Fairchild, Principal. pic.twitter.com/9h0AS3LLac
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) September 15, 2020
See how a Cave Creek Unified School District adapted physical education teacher helped her students stay active during distance learning with the Rock & Roll Marathon series.
Thinking outside the box is important for finding solutions to obstacles to remote learning, this principal says.
Warren Keller, principal of Sequoia Deaf School in Mesa, emphasized the importance of thinking creatively for solutions: “I feel like I’m coming up with a lot of stuff, but I’ve got to sort of implement it slowly and remember to be patient.” https://t.co/8AUeyAl4Bc
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) September 15, 2020
Looking for community resources? Balsz School District‘s Family Resource Hub has some answers.
The #BalszSchoolDistrict Family Resource Hub is the best resource for parents within our district! Here you’ll find information ranging from food distribution to information and details that pertain to your #community. Visit the link below today!https://t.co/KHpUQDm2ye pic.twitter.com/nu9VaOCw1W
— Balsz SD (@BalszSD) September 15, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 209,209 today from 208,725 yesterday, and 5,344 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Crane School District Governing Board Meeting
— Crane School Dist. (@CraneSchools) September 15, 2020
Special Work Session
Virtual Meeting Recording
September 14, 2020https://t.co/YEXPT5Tua6 pic.twitter.com/WSNVCY4ec7
In Maricopa County, there are 137,870 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,643 in Pima County, 12,430 in Yuma County, 10,198 in Pinal County, 5,704 in Navajo County, 3,798 in Mohave County, 3,395 in Apache County, 3,565 in Coconino County, 2,787 in Santa Cruz County, 2,429 in Yavapai County, 1,861 in Cochise County, 1,168 in Gila County, 776 in Graham County, 527 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Phoenix Union High School celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month to our #PXU Family! Please join us in celebrating, recognizing, and honoring the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. #ThisIsWhoWeAre #HispanicHeritageMonth 🧡✨ pic.twitter.com/XeuBigAYVO
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) September 15, 2020
Arizona Capitol Times‘ The Morning Scoop highlighted he importance of early childhood education to Arizona’s economy today.
Thanks @ldelpuerto and @HeliosEdFnd for hosting today’s morning scoop to highlight the importance of early childhood education. #ECE is critical to our economy and to ensure our students are ready for Kindergarten. @CAA_Arizona @KateMcGeeAZ @Sierra4AZ @BarbiePrinster pic.twitter.com/nuPi8dCH2w
— Erin Hart (@erinzhart) September 15, 2020
PBS LearningMedia offers free, standards-algined resources for students.
PBS LearningMedia offers free, standards-aligned resources that your students can access anywhere and any time.
— PBS Teachers (@pbsteachers) September 12, 2020
Peoria Unified School District says arts education is essential during National Arts in Education Week.
Happy National Arts in Education week! In @PeoriaUnified11we have #peoriaunifiedpride and #BecauseOfArtsEd we foster, grow and develop the whole child top help them to have a K-12 education that is filled with learning in the and through the Arts! pic.twitter.com/g19WvjsVWs
— Peoria Arts Ed (@PeoriaArtsEd) September 15, 2020
Community Food Bank in Tucson needs your submissions of kids’ art for their 2021 calendar.
🍓Kids Calendar Contest!🍓
— Community Food Bank (@foodbanktucson) September 15, 2020
There’s still time to spread the word & make some art! We’re looking for submissions for our 2021 Kids Calendar, and we need your help getting the word out.
All the details at: https://t.co/9PV328VFz8 pic.twitter.com/hvKLnlbOCU
Parents must align their expectations for distance learning with student and teachers, and the National Parent Teacher Association offers a resource for that.
With distance learning it’s important our expectations are aligned with our students’ and teachers’. The Distance Learning Playbook for Parents can help us shape our students’ academic and social-emotional development anywhere. https://t.co/cReUjVv4qC#PTABackToSchool pic.twitter.com/a3JcKZeUeD
— NationalPTA (@NationalPTA) September 15, 2020
School leaders can help teachers feel more confident about distance learning, edutopia says.
Helping Teachers Feel More Confident About Distance Learning: Teachers will be more successful at remote instruction if they believe they can do it, and school leaders can boost their sense of efficacy. https://t.co/KK5KTuApTC via @edutopia
— NAESP (@NAESP) September 15, 2020
Here’s what to expect next after your student completes the FAFSA, Arizona College Access Network says.
Your #students completed the #FAFSA, now what? We will go over the FAFSA next steps with you during our Sept. 24 webinar: https://t.co/QEtXWcqeJY pic.twitter.com/O8HjVxdKHo
— AzCAN (@AzCollegeAccess) September 15, 2020
An Arizona non-profit is helping veterans with tutoring and supplies as they return to higher education, Expect More Arizona says.
An Arizona nonprofit is helping veterans with tutoring and supplies as they navigate higher education. Learn more: https://t.co/WnPYRcYlwT #Go60AZ #Road2Equity #AttainmentMatters
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) September 15, 2020
Crane School District shares a recording of their governing board meeting last night.
Crane School District Governing Board Meeting
— Crane School Dist. (@CraneSchools) September 15, 2020
Special Work Session
Virtual Meeting Recording
September 14, 2020https://t.co/YEXPT5Tua6 pic.twitter.com/WSNVCY4ec7
Ashton Ranch students return to campus for in-person instruction.
And for a lighter take on online learning, there’s this.
BEHOLD your newest Zoom instructor: @Bomanizer. ✏️
— MTV (@MTV) September 15, 2020
Sit back, relax, and take notes. Class is in session: pic.twitter.com/A15zN7we9u
Updated 9/14: Students in Mesa, Dysart and Chandler unified school districts and others throughout the state headed back to school this morning for the first day of in-person or hybrid model classes.
Superintendent Andi Fourlis visited Lehi and MacArthur elementary schools this morning. We are excited to welcome our modified in-person learners to campus this week! pic.twitter.com/IxC8h3dTps
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) September 14, 2020
We are so excited to see our students back in the classroom! @TRESJaguars had a great morning welcoming their Kinder through fourth graders back for in-person learning today. 🏫📚✏️ pic.twitter.com/biAmdft6Nc
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 14, 2020
Welcome Class of 2024 @WillowCanyonHS! We’re excited to have you back! pic.twitter.com/saGNcelv0U
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 14, 2020
#SchoolSpotlight: “At @conley_coyotes, we’ve gone above & beyond to build relationships with our students & keep them engaged in learning while in a virtual learning environment. That is why we are so excited to get them back on our campus. Welcome back Coyotes!” @PisaShore pic.twitter.com/yc0yy8wWuk
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) September 14, 2020
Welcome back #AndersenAstronauts we’re so excited you’re back!! @ChandlerUnified pic.twitter.com/w7YLtSfFUR
— Andersen Elementary (@AndersenElemen1) September 14, 2020
But Phoenix Union High School District says students will continue remote learning through Oct. because COVID-19 cases remain high within the communities that the district serves.
Arizona’s largest high school district will remain in remote learning mode until 2021https://t.co/ejkPQuvUpD pic.twitter.com/rXmBQ9RPGm
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) September 14, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 208,725 today from 208,512 yesterday, and 5,322 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 213 new #COVID19 cases are being added to the ADHS dashboard. Good news! No new deaths are being added to the dashboard. Do more to protect yourself while COVID-19 continues to circulate, #RollUpYourSleeve and get an influenza shot. https://t.co/PqqcqZJpnP pic.twitter.com/CmuBRDsrdO
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 14, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 137,589 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,511 in Pima County, 12,415 in Yuma County, 10,187 in Pinal County, 5,694 in Navajo County, 3,792 in Mohave County, 3,386 in Apache County, 3,553 in Coconino County, 2,785 in Santa Cruz County, 2,427 in Yavapai County, 1,860 in Cochise County, 1,168 in Gila County, 774 in Graham County, 526 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
University of Arizona is asking students to shelter in place for 14 days to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
All students living on or near the University of Arizona campus should shelter in place for the next 14 days to help reduce community spread of the coronavirus, Pima County and UA officials urged Monday. The recommendation comes as COVID-19… https://t.co/I8d7SzMvVw
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) September 15, 2020
Arizona State University President Dr. Michael Crow sent a letter with photos to Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ about Mill Avenue bars violating COVID-19 regulations.
JUST IN: @abc15 has obtained a letter sent by @ASU President Michael Crow to @AZDHS Director calling out multiple Mill Ave. Bars for violating health regulations AND THERE’S PICTURES! pic.twitter.com/V1vyghx3nv
— Adam Waltz (@Adam_Waltz) September 14, 2020
Expect More Arizona invites you to take part in a Town Hall on distance learning on Sept. 17.
Town Hall on 9/17 will answer parents’ questions, offer guidance, & provide practical tips on how to keep children motivated, emotionally strong, & on track academically. Register: https://t.co/QWvzv0vXfC. Hosted by @PBS, @khanacademy & @LearningHeroeshttps://t.co/5uWTWuJbEk
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) September 14, 2020
Students can still learn about different people and cultures during distance learning, edutopia says.
See how these education resources can make a *world* of difference. 🌍 https://t.co/DnuKDFPYBa
— edutopia (@edutopia) September 14, 2020
Parents tell Tolleson Union High School District they want it to start fall football.
Parents demand Tolleson Union district start fall football https://t.co/IcDhNKMCCL
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 14, 2020
Take a look at these 10 anti-racism resources for kids and families from Metro Parent.
.@MetroParent has curated a list of 10 anti-racism resources to help students understand racism and why we all should stand against it. https://t.co/ggTIfY9VRP #antiracism #teachervoice #coreadvocates pic.twitter.com/jVO5H59Bpe
— achievethecore.org (@achievethecore) September 15, 2020
A former Goodyear charter school principal has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison and ordered to pay $2.5 million in restitution, KTAR News 92.3 FM reports.
The former principal of a Goodyear charter school has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison and ordered to pay more than $2.5 million in restitution in a fraud case.https://t.co/uzP77AIzps
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) September 14, 2020
Check out iCivics elections curriculum and teaching resources.
A1: If you haven’t already stumbled upon it, we curated all of our election resources at https://t.co/7j8f0CoLnE to make it easier to grab-and-go as we know you’re pressed for time.
— iCivics (@icivics) September 14, 2020
Let us know if you have any idea for a resource or something you’d like to see us create! #sschat
Updated 9/11: School districts around the state commemorated 9/11 Patriot Day with a variety of videos and in-person and virtual activities.
Take a look below at what students, teachers and staff at Chandler Unified School District did to remember what happened on this day 19 years ago.

Chandler Unified schools commemorated Patriot Day with a variety of virtual activities and videos to help students learn about one of our country’s worst tragedies. Here are a few that were submitted to the district office. #NeverForget911 pic.twitter.com/GeH0SBusdH
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) September 11, 2020
An East Valley Institute of Technology fire science instructor tells students about responding to the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.
This week’s episode of #GoodMorningEVIT is dedicated to remembering 9/11. #EVIT #FireScience instructor Jim McNamara shares his story of responding to the World Trade Center on Sept.11, 2001 & the importance of talking to students about his experience. https://t.co/r2AMedQ6Bf pic.twitter.com/BYLF07SjSE
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) September 10, 2020
Sahuarita Intermediate School‘s choral and orchestra director sings in remembrance of 9/11.
Kyrene Schools remember 9/11 through discussions and moments of silence.
Although we cannot gather at assemblies today, Kyrene staff, students and community members are recognizing the 19th anniversary of 9/11 together, through discussions and moments of silence. pic.twitter.com/S3HeQnBolC
— KyreneSchools (@KyreneSchools) September 11, 2020
Peoria Unified School District staff shared their 9/11 experiences.
.@CeHSAZ also hosted their own virtual 9/11 ceremony where staff shared their experiences and thanked the first responders who gave their lives to help. https://t.co/UNFuDOg5cn
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) September 11, 2020
Arizona State University Football Coach Herm Edwards tells his story about 9/11 when he was head coach of the New York Jets.
“That was probably my best moment ever as a football coach.”
— Chierstin Susel (@ChierstinSusel) September 11, 2020
Herm Edwards tells his emotional story during the 9-11 attacks when he was head coach of the New York Jets. #12Sports @ASUFootball pic.twitter.com/VJsKqNwYrO
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 207,523 today from 207,002 yesterday, and 5,288 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
.@ASUEngineering student Grant Real Bird spent the summer on the Fort Apache reservation in eastern Arizona where he grew up, doing work that likely saved lives.
— Arizona State University (@ASU) September 11, 2020
He shares with @asunews what his experience as a #COVID19 contract tracer meant to him. https://t.co/UWEUdIv93L
In Maricopa County, there are 136,887 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,247 in Pima County, 12,374 in Yuma County, 10,156 in Pinal County, 5,677 in Navajo County, 3,781 in Mohave County, 3,386 in Apache County, 3,454 in Coconino County, 2,781 in Santa Cruz County, 2,408 in Yavapai County, 1,856 in Cochise County, 1,162 in Gila County, 772 in Graham County, 524 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
🏈Watching #football this weekend?🏈 Remember you are safer at home. Find tips to stay safe and healthy while enjoying this football season in today’s blog post. https://t.co/Sy7AucONb1 #MaskUpAZ #AZTogether
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 11, 2020
Attention Cartwright Community: City of Phoenix COVID-19 mobile testing sites. Walk-up appointments are available tomorrow and Sunday, and all testing is free. Insurance is not required. Assistance in Spanish available. For more details, visit https://t.co/nXcOj5qiIB
— Cartwright District (@CartwrightSD) September 11, 2020
Baboquivari Unified School District staff drew prizes for students who teachers said are doing good work in their classes.
See how your state fared in the Education Week Quality Counts report on the K-12 achievement index.
Across the states, grades on the #QualityCounts report range from a B-plus in Massachusetts and New Jersey to a D-plus in Alabama, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. https://t.co/l0TKjcFaOP
— Education Week (@educationweek) September 11, 2020
Dysart Unified School District says students meals will be served in closed containers when they return to school starting next week.
Staff will take steps to speed up lunch lines and keep as much distance as possible between students. Schools have also developed procedures and schedules to help minimize the number of students in the cafeteria at one time. #DysartSafe Learn more at https://t.co/nshYQXLkB3
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 11, 2020
Cartwright School District reminds children under 18 years old in the communities they serve that they can pick up free breakfast and lunch from their school buses stopping in their neighborhoods.
See a Cartwright bus or van in your neighborhood? Go get a free breakfast and lunch! We’ll serve anyone under the age of 18! Let your neighbors know too. https://t.co/RPSU2Ps176
— Sarah Hernandez (@csdshernandez) September 11, 2020
Washington Monthly ranks colleges where majors popular with Black students lead to well-paying careers.
Despite the focus on #racialjustice in higher education, there’s been little information about which schools do the best job of helping #Black students – until this new Washington @Monthly College Guide. #HigherEd #Students #Diversity #Race #HumanWork https://t.co/o56jMqPakf
— Lumina Foundation (@LuminaFound) September 9, 2020
Piñon Unified School District reminds students it’s time to apply for scholarships at Diné College.
Teachers, your students might enjoy this web quest on the Constitution, courtesy iCivics.
Take your students on a fast tour of the Constitution with this #WebQuest!
— iCivics (@icivics) September 11, 2020
They’ll find out why it was written, how it’s structured, what it does, and even how it can be changed. All the essentials are right here: https://t.co/4xbgADR3w6 #ConstitutionDay #sschat pic.twitter.com/YF9yr7uSRL
There’s still time to fill out the 2020 Census online, by phone or by mail.
The #2020Census will shape our future for the next 10 years! Make sure you and your family are counted, including kids- respond today here: https://t.co/jC4ZQHbWSX pic.twitter.com/9RYZRfKQpE
— Maricopa County (@maricopacounty) September 11, 2020
Some former Great Hearts students and teachers call out the school for racist and discriminatory practices, The Arizona Republic reports.
For subscribers: Former Great Hearts students, teachers call some school practices racist, sexist and discriminatory.https://t.co/Ft6ASdtMaN
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 11, 2020
Get caught up on five hot topics in the weekly update with Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District #35 with Superintendent David Verdugo.
SCV35 Weekly Update w/@RRSUPER35 – 9.11.20 https://t.co/jlZVbmLlqY via @YouTube
— Rio Rico High School (@rioricohigh) September 11, 2020
Balsz School District reminds students and families that they can pick up meals for students at bus stops, cafeterias and curbside.
Arizona K12 Center invites you take part in their second distance learning playbook virtual workshop to be held on Nov. 14.
If you have already attended a Distance Learning Playbook training with us or @CorwinPress, you can also dig deeper into the Playbook and your own practice with Going Deeper into The Distance Learning Playbook with @DFISHERSDSU on December 5! Learn more: https://t.co/55ewtMEcVZ
— Arizona K12 Center (@azk12) September 11, 2020
Humboldt Unified School District said their teacher of the year ceremony will go on virtually.
Cave Creek Unified School District thanks Carefee Kiwanis and Brian Kunkel for donating 500 face shields for students and speech pathologists.
This is what 500 face shields look like! Thank you so much to Carefree Kiwanis (and Brian Kunkel) for the donation! The CCUSD Speech Pathologists and our students are very grateful!!! pic.twitter.com/7unuxpLdrA
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) September 11, 2020
Updated 9/10: Gov. Doug Ducey, Arizona Dept of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ, Supt., of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman and other education leaders, veterans advocates and state lawmakers held a media briefing at Chandler Unified School District‘s Hamilton High School today to highlight suicide prevention efforts and providing a COVID-19 update.
In addition, Gov. Ducey discussed new efforts to increase behavioral health support for students on campus and during online learning.
Arizona Dept. of Health Services: Media briefing with Gov. Ducey and health and education leaders on suicide prevention
Every September, Arizona participates in Suicide Prevention Awareness month, Dr. Christ said.
In 2019, suicide was the 8th leading cause of death for Arizonans, Dr. Christ said.
“In Arizona, the age group most impacted are our older adults,” Dr. Christ said. “While our White, non-Hispanics have the highest number of suicides our Native Americans and veterans are the most impacted. Our rural counties are also more impacted than our population centers.”
Since the release of the suicide action plan in January 2019, many activities have taken place and are especially critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Christ said.
A few include the launch of a public-facing data dashboard at azdhs.gov, supporting suicide prevention in a worksite capacity as part of a wellness program, promoting protective factors such as financial resources and support services that build resiliency among families and communities, screening for perinatal depression in home visiting programs, encouraging social connectedness to combat isolation and loneliness and working on a public campaign promoting social connectedness, Dr. Christ said.
“For many months now, Arizona’s focus and top priority has been public health, we’ve sought to prevent cases of COVID-19 through responsible mitigation measures and ensure care for all those that need it,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We remain fully dedicated to these efforts, but protecting the well-being of our families and loved ones involves more than just physical health. It involves protecting mental health as well,” Gov. Ducey said.
“Last year, 1,500 Arizonans died by suicide. That means on average a suicide occurred every six hours in our state, and that was before the pandemic,” Gov. Ducey said.
“New national reports paint a worrying trend. According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Americans reporting symptoms of depression registered a three-fold jump compared to before the pandemic,” Gov. Ducey said.
“These aren’t just statistics, they represent people in our lives,” Gov. Ducey said. “Many of them are struggling during this time of increased isolation and heightened stress, and we must be there for them.”
Many Arizona agencies are working collaboratively “to make sure that no one falls through the cracks, that everyone has the mental health support and safety net that they need,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We also know that some are more vulnerable to suicide than others. They include our seniors, our veterans and our young people,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Ducey commended Sen. Kate Brophy McGee and Rep. Jeff Weninger, who earlier this year created a bill approved by the Arizona Legislature known as Jake’s Law that requires health care insurers to cover mental health without additional barriers just like they would cover an annual physical.
In January, the Arizona Department of Health Services launched Arizona’s Suicide Action Plan with the goal of improving mental health, collecting data and ensuring support services are available in all Arizona communities.
The Arizona Department of Veterans Services has made mental health their top priority, their Be Connected program has received national attention, and they’re trained people to help veterans find the resources they need.
Suicide prevention and behavioral health services for students
“Lastly, I want to talk about a population who is especially at risk, our young people,” Gov. Ducey said. “Tragically, among children ages 10 to 14 years old in Arizona, suicide is the leading cause of death.”
“Many people up here today have worked extensively to provide lifelines to our teens and young people,” Gov. Ducey said.
Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System has worked closely with Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman to get more behavioral health resources into Arizona schools, Gov. Ducey said.
“Over the past year, clinicians across our state have provided behavioral health services to over 15,000 students on school campuses, representing a 28 percent increase in the number of students accessing school-based care,” Gov. Ducey said. “These services include behavioral health assessments, counseling and therapy.”
Join us from 6 – 7:30 p.m. TODAY, Sept. 10, using this link: https://t.co/tQDy18HuGC for Southwest Behavioral & Health Services Parent Resource Forum in partnership with the Roosevelt School District No. 66 and more than five other non-profit organizations! pic.twitter.com/lorR4QrRDD
— RSD No. 66 (@RSDNo66) September 10, 2020
“Now that many students are attending class online, behavioral health providers have stepped up and transitioned to offering services via telehealth and virtual means, tapping into an extended telehealth benefit offered by AHCCCS during this pandemic,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We all have a role to play in preventing suicide, and we all know that the loss of a single student or school staff member is absolutely devastating to a school community,” said Supt. Hoffman.
“As educators, we are often the first to recognize when a student or a colleague is experiencing a mental health crisis,” Supt. Hoffman said.

“As schools across Arizona navigate this unprecedented school year, it is more important than ever that we renew our dedication to suicide prevention and mental health,” Supt. Hoffman said.
“Like all Arizonans, our students and staff have grappled with so many changes and hardships over the past six months,” Supt. Hoffman said.
“The risk is especially pronounced for young people, especially Native American students and LGBTQ students,” Supt. Hoffman said. “One loss of life to suicide is one too many, which is why the Arizona Department of Education’s School Safety and Social Wellness team continues to work closely with AHCCCS to provide free suicide prevention trainings and other resources to school staff and community members.”
“It is also why we made releasing Arizona’s new social emotional learning competencies a priority last month,” Supt. Hoffman said, noting that more information could be found on their website at azed.gov.
“This has been a difficult year for our schools, but in the face of these new challenges our schools have shown their unwavering commitment to supporting students, families and entire school communities,” Supt. Hoffman said. “No student or educator is alone, and schools remain a safe place to talk with a trusted adult. Together we can reduce the stigma around mental health, and we can ensure that every child and adult in our schools feels safe, healthy and supported.”
During the most recent youth risk surveillance system survey done in 2019 that asked 9th through 12th graders about risk taking behaviors, “we gained some alarming insights about our state’s youth,” said Dr. Christ with Arizona Department of Health Services.
“In 2019, over 40 percent of Arizona’s students reported feeling sad or hopeless for almost every day for two weeks or more,” Dr. Christ said, noting it was higher than the national estimate.
“Almost 21 percent of high schoolers responded that they had contemplated suicide, 16 percent had made a plan, 10 percent reported a suicide attempt, and 4 percent reported that the attempt resulted in an injury that required medical attention,” Dr. Christ said.
“As a mother, this information is worrisome, and these data indicate a critical need for coping strategies and access to mental health services for our youth,” Dr. Christ said.
AZDHS is also working with the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury to promote the Must Stop Bullying public awareness campaign through a variety of social media and media platforms in both English and Spanish, Dr. Christ said.
“We’re coordinating the bullying prevention training for schools, school districts and community organizations,” Dr. Christ said. “With the onset of COVID-19 the training has been offered virtually and creates a focus on creating positive home climates to promote learning, prevent stress, and protect youth against cyberbullying.”
Update on Arizona’s gradual re-opening
For schools, 11 counties have met the public health benchmarks to return to the classroom, Dr. Christ said.
“Many schools have made the decision to return to a hybrid learning model,” Dr. Christ said. “We encourage parents to look at the school’s mitigation plans and determine the best method of education for their families.”
Last week, Supt. Hoffman and Dr. Christ sent a letter to schools stressing the importance of the flu vaccinations for students, staff and families, Dr. Christ said.
“As of this morning, 12 counties met the benchmarks for categories that allow certain businesses to open with reduced occupancy and strict public health requirements,” Dr. Christ said. “We have 10 counties in the moderate category and that does include Maricopa, Pima and Pinal. We have two – Greenlee and La Paz – in the minimal category.”
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 207,002 today from 206,541yesterday, and 5,273 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
The City of Mesa, in partnership with Mesa Public Schools, will be offering COVID-19 testing and flu shots in a series of public events on five consecutive Saturdays. The first of these events will be held Saturday, Sept. 19 at Longfellow Elementary School, 345 S. Hall. pic.twitter.com/ZtdCeC30vN
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) September 10, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 136,571 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,140 in Pima County, 12,351 in Yuma County, 10,142 in Pinal County, 5,665 in Navajo County, 3,776 in Mohave County, 3,392 in Apache County, 3,436 in Coconino County, 2,780 in Santa Cruz County, 2,390 in Yavapai County, 1,855 in Cochise County, 1,154 in Gila County, 767 in Graham County, 525 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Try these ideas to liven up your online instruction, edutopia suggests.
The digital classroom doesn’t have to be a replica of the traditional classroom. Educators can prepare for the online school year with these tips to help reframe and rethink online instruction.https://t.co/4QgkjCE5n9
— edutopia (@edutopia) September 10, 2020
Anyone 18 years old and younger can eat breakfast and lunch from Cartwright School District‘s Castro Middle School, call the number below for more information.
Breakfast & lunch served @Castro for everyone 18 & younger; don’t need to be a Cartwright student. It is available from 6am to 2pm, Monday-Thursday. Sunset Elementary is open 3-6:30 pm. We still have our bus routes and apartment complexes. Call 623-691-4093 for more information! pic.twitter.com/2DCsN285Cv
— CastroMiddleSchool: Academy of Fine Arts (@Castro_Middle) September 10, 2020
Dysart Unified School District explains their plan to keep buses clean and safe for students.
We have put additional precautions in place as students begin to ride the bus. Face coverings are required. Students will load from front to back & unload from back to front. All buses will be disinfected between each run & will undergo additional cleaning nightly. #DysartSafe pic.twitter.com/vRytZjgspJ
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 10, 2020
Yuma Union High School District shares information about the hybrid learning plan and students’ return to campus.
Please visit our expanded FAQ for answers to questions about the hybrid learning plan, transportation, student nutrition, and more.
— Yuma Union High School District (@YUHSD) September 10, 2020
LINK: https://t.co/JxbKqWf8RL
For campus-specific details, including a virtual FAQ with principals, please visit your school’s website. pic.twitter.com/Xe6Nr7sLSq
Higley Unified School District changes dates for parent/teacher conference so families and educators can build relationships and present student data.
The HUSD governing board recently changed parent/teacher conference dates to allow teachers the time necessary to build relationships & collect important data for their students. You can view the District’s calendar online at https://t.co/m26limHNzf. #HUSDMovingForwardTogether pic.twitter.com/Rw5PGWqd3p
— Higley Schools (@higleydistrict) September 10, 2020
Glendale Community College reminds students that if they need help there are resources available to assist.
If you’re struggling to start off this school year, it’s okay to ask for help! GCC Counseling Faculty can assist you with problem-solving and decision-making to overcome personal difficulties.
— GCC (@gccaz) September 10, 2020
Schedule a free appointment today at ➡️ https://t.co/jmMvZ9Dc30 pic.twitter.com/6WIgdGaDU5
Cave Creek Unified School District thanked Rosati’s for donating water bottles for students.
Shout out to Rosati’s on Tatum in Cave Creek for the water donation for CCUSD students! #WeAreCCUSD pic.twitter.com/tFmVo5pJUE
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) September 10, 2020
The Flinn Scholars Program hosts information sessions about the scholarship next week.
Next week, the Flinn Scholars Program hosts two information sessions about the Flinn Scholarship. Join either of these webinars via Zoom:
— Flinn Scholars (@FlinnScholars) September 10, 2020
💻 Mon., 9/14 6-7:30
💻 Tue., 9/15 6-7:30 (in Spanish)https://t.co/UZvr9lapWu
National Public Radio reports on why schools are struggling to feed students.
“Every day I worry about them. Every day. We come up with new ways every week to get meals to our kids.” https://t.co/jTmvuf5N2O
— Community Food Bank (@foodbanktucson) September 10, 2020
Updated 9/9: Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman said many schools are using benchmarks and guidelines in their decisions when to re-open for in-person instruction, and she like Arizona Education Association Vice President Marisol Garcia, understands teachers and staff concerns about safety during an interview with ABC 15 Arizona.
ONLY ON ABC15: State education leaders weigh in on recent school reopenings: https://t.co/k3FtX3uwmL #abc15 pic.twitter.com/HRVE1K7ki2
— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) September 9, 2020
Prescott Unified School District started its first day of hybrid learning yesterday.
Florence Unified School District plans to bring students back to campus for in-person instruction on Monday, Oct. 5.
We are looking forward to welcoming our students back on campus on Monday, October 5th! You MUST have completed the Google form & waiver acknowledgment BEFORE your student returns. Please contact the school site office for more information. #WelcomeSafeConnected pic.twitter.com/oqrOPRvNpk
— Florence Unified (@Florenceusd) September 9, 2020
A group of parents thanked Cactus Shadows High School‘s principal for starting in-person learning today.
About 40 students and parents showed up at Cactus Shadows HS to thank the principal for figuring out a way to have in person learning tomorrow even if short on teachers #AZFamily pic.twitter.com/XlUYwhohas
— Maria Hechanova (@MariaHechanova) September 8, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 206,541 today from 206,045 yesterday, and 5,251 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 496 new #COVID19 cases were added to the ADHS dashboard with 30 new deaths. Order a pack of free masks to help prevent the spread in Arizona. https://t.co/nTvJUmKtBF #MaskUpAZ pic.twitter.com/xIhQZ6GqW9
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 9, 2020
We are proud to announce that we are partnering with Embry Women’s Health to offer zero-cost COVID-19 testing at GCC North! Everyone is welcome to get tested from 7 AM – 6 PM, Mondays – Fridays.
— GCC (@gccaz) September 9, 2020
Make your appointment today at ➡️ https://t.co/lnhvmeGKiN. pic.twitter.com/0vmV1npmwW
In Maricopa County, there are 136,324 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,071 in Pima County, 12,344 in Yuma County, 10,086 in Pinal County, 5,661 in Navajo County, 3,767 in Mohave County, 3,375 in Apache County, 3,409 in Coconino County, 2,779 in Santa Cruz County, 2,386 in Yavapai County, 1,847 in Cochise County, 1,148 in Gila County, 766 in Graham County, 518 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
With Arizona’s number of COVID-19 cases decreasing, many states are dropping their requirement that people arriving from Arizona must self-quarantine.https://t.co/xENT5G0LLV
— azcentral (@azcentral) September 9, 2020
Arizona State University President Dr. Michael Crow talks about COVID-19 testing and data to 12 News.
WATCH LIVE: ASU President Michael Crow speaks about COVID-19 testing and data trends as coronavirus cases increase to 807 students and 18 staff members. https://t.co/kOEIZ313ur
— 12 News (@12News) September 9, 2020
Arizona inspected five school districts in the past year, halting during the pandemic and now more than 500 schools have ongoing air conditioning repairs, The Arizona Republic reports.
AZ inspected five districts in the past year and halted inspections during the pandemic. Wondering why state officials haven’t placed an emphasis on inspections — cc @Supt_Hoffman @dougducey @SFBvoice @michudall https://t.co/BUWVTKmQhV
— Lily Altavena🌵 (@lilyalta) September 9, 2020
Mesa Public Schools invites students and families to a Facebook Live discussion with more details about modified in-person learning at 4 p.m. today.
Today at 4 p.m., join us for another Facebook live event discussing more details about modified in-person learning. Hear from district leadership as they discuss the modified in-person learning model and answer your questions live. See you there at https://t.co/oxGOxsJFT3!
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) September 9, 2020
Learn more about efforts to understand students’ at-home technology and internet access needs and efforts to close the Digital Divide.
vIt’s #K12 Digital Equity Outreach Month! A nationwide effort by school districts to connect with families, understand their home digital access needs & gather the data needed to close the digital divide.
— ISTE (@iste) September 9, 2020
Join the #ConnectEveryStudent movement: https://t.co/nSsdthvQRX. pic.twitter.com/Pwxj9H98sz
Cartwright School District celebrated gifted enrichment club starting today for students at Atkinson Gifted Academy.
@MAtkinsonSchool Gifted Enrichment Club began today for Atkinson scholars. #atkinsongiftedacademy #cartwrightgate pic.twitter.com/rH9rfWfQiu
— Cartwright Gifted Education (@CESD83GATE) September 9, 2020
There’s still time for fill out the 2020 Census online, by phone or by mail before Census workers start knocking on doors.
Counting all kids in the 2020 census is a very important step in achieving a complete and accurate count of Arizona communities. If any children live in your home, make sure you count them on your #2020Census form. Complete your form today at https://t.co/cYThyYaCDP. pic.twitter.com/eunZsRZpaJ
— Vice Mayor Betty Guardado – District 5 (@PHXDistrict5) September 9, 2020
Hear from Supt. Hoffman how schools will handle COVID-19 outbreaks on KJZZ 91.5 FM‘s The Show podcast.
.@Supt_Hoffman on how Arizona schools will handle COVID-19 outbreaks, how Goodyear lost its Nike plant and more — today’s #TheShow podcast is ready for download. 🎧 https://t.co/qTTcjsqINc
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) September 9, 2020
Subscribe, rate and never miss an episode of KJZZ’s original news production. pic.twitter.com/IZvVnuz9lu
Families are recruiting teacher to lead their COVID-19 pandemic learning pods with competitive salaries, according to Education Next.
Did you know? Families are recruiting teachers to lead their pandemic learning pods and paying as much as $125,000 under these arrangements—more than most teachers make in an ordinary year. https://t.co/uJQrdOvsJQ
— Education Next (@EducationNext) September 9, 2020
Kith and Kin parent classes start on Monday, Sept. 14 at Borman Elementary School.
Kith and Kin parent classes start Monday, September 14th. pic.twitter.com/adypYjWA25
— Borman Elementary (@BormanCSD83) September 9, 2020
Here are three moves state policy makers can make to maintain special education funding, promote equitable learning and coordinate services, WestEd says.
📎Policy Perspectives: What 3 moves can state policymakers make to maintain special education funding, promote equitable learning outcomes and coordinate services for students with disabilities? Read more: https://t.co/dmTIl39lK7 #spedchat #schoolfinance #edpolicy #edchat
— WestEd (@WestEd) September 9, 2020
Earlier coverage
Aug. 25 – Sept. 8: Parents voice concern about online class size; school nurses prepare for students
Aug. 12 – Aug. 24: Students, teachers affected by Zoom outage
July 30 – Aug. 11: Parent organizes co-op for learners; group rallies for in-person school days after benchmarks release
July 13- July 30: Teachers prepare for digital learning and back to school
June 29 – July 12: Video: Gov. says ‘Goal is to get children back to school when it’s safe;’ Schools lay out learning models
June 29: Video: Gov. delays in-person classes to Aug. 17 due to rise in COVID-19
Updates from June 15 – June 29: Video: Gov. pauses re-opening of some businesses as COVID-19 cases rise
June 24: Plan provides more funding, flexible instruction as schools re-open
Updates from May 26 – June 12: Increase in COVID-19 cases marks a new daily high
Updates from May 20 – 25: AZ Dept. of Ed releases COVID-19 guidance to schools for summer programs, back to school
Updates from May 11 – 19: Arizonans consider workplace safety, what back to school will look like amid COVID-19
Updates from April 26 – May 10: Stores re-open, COVID-19 testing blitz resumes on Saturday
Updates from April 8 – 25: You can get tested now if you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
Updates from March 12 – April 7: Coronavirus response: Cases rise; AZ Day of Giving