Stores re-open, COVID-19 testing blitz resumes on Saturday

Click here for COVID-19 coverage from May 11 forward
Updated May 8: Some stores and salons re-opened today, and the COVID-19 Arizona testing blitz continues on Saturday.
#COVID19 testing will be available at #AZTestingBlitz sites across the state tomorrow.
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) May 8, 2020
Access details, including how to pre-register, here: https://t.co/NAcR7kH7jz @AZDHS pic.twitter.com/8ZbZ9C4FN0
The Arizona Senate has voted to adjourn, but Arizona House of Representatives Speaker Rusty Bowers said he would not follow Senate President Karen Fann’s lead, which means that until the House votes to adjourn the Senate has just recessed, according to The Associated Press.
By a 24-6 vote, the #AZSenate has recessed (not adjourned) sine die. That means we have almost (until the #AZHouse joins) ended our official work for the year. There’s still a lot of need in our community still. My work for the people of #LD29 won’t end just cuz the #AZLeg has. https://t.co/At6ZMhwmUF
— Sen. Martín Quezada (@SenQuezada29) May 8, 2020
.@FannKfann says gov has promised a special session. ‘In fact, I’m sure we’re going to have more than one special session,’ she says. First would likely involve business liability and ‘some other reform bills that will help us get our economic development back and going.’
— Maria Polletta🌵 (@mpolletta) May 8, 2020
Senate security and DPS out in the parking lot as protesters shout at senators driving away who voted for sine die. Protesters are surrounding their cars; yelling into drivers’ windows, but not blocking them from pulling out pic.twitter.com/tj5yi6lxGW
— Julia Shumway (@JMShumway) May 8, 2020
To clarify, the session is not officially over until the House votes for sine die as well. The Senate has voted to send a sine die motion to the House, but can still resume work on business from the legislation until the House also votes for adjournment.
— Jeremy Duda (@jeremyduda) May 8, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 10,526 from 9,945 yesterday, and 517 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
This week, #TheShow‘s Voices of COVID-19 series turns to the essential workers.@bgcarizona‘s Johana Lopez is making sure there is a safe place for kids to go whose parents are also essential workers and can’t stay home.https://t.co/aESRktZSm2
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) May 8, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 5,55 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,520 in Pima County, 945 in Navajo County, 659 in Coconino County, 566 in Pinal County, 170 in Yavapai County, 671 in Apache County, 159 in Yuma County, 171 in Mohave County, 41 in Cochise County, 38 in Santa Cruz County, 18 in Graham County, 22 in La Paz County, 19 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,976, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,444 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Forty-three percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 20% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 18% Native American, 14% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.

More men, 54%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older – 410 – have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

There were 228 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.

BREAKING UPDATE: Desert Cove nursing facility in Chandler released new COVID numbers…which are nothing short of scary.
— Briana Whitney (@BrianaWhitney) May 8, 2020
-54 residents now have coronavirus
-19 staff members now have coronavirus
-5 residents have died
This has all happened in the course of 2 weeks #azfamily pic.twitter.com/INAAXYtHNn
About 400 inmates quarantined at CoreCivic prison in Florence, after 13 test positive for COVID-19 https://t.co/Dl1g4pP4Ce via @azcentral
— Chris Coppola (@chris_coppola) May 8, 2020
Eastmark High school students thanked front-line workers.
Love how our kids were inspired by a teacher to create their own collage! Thank you to all front line workers keeping us safe each day. We appreciate you very much! @qcusd @EastmarkAZ @CadenceGateway @CITYOFMESA @TownofQC #excellencethroughleadership https://t.co/pFltKeQn09
— Eastmark High School (QCUSD) (@eastmarkhs) April 23, 2020
Tucson Values Teachers honored Desert View High School’s Kasie Betten with the Teacher Excellence Award.
Congrats to Kasie Betten, high school English teacher at Desert View High School! We surprised her this morning with the #TeacherExcellenceAward!
— TucsonValuesTeachers (@Tweet4Teachers) May 8, 2020
Ms. Betten was nominated by several students who put together this video. Big thanks to her students and everyone at @sunnysideusd! pic.twitter.com/Wz6UmfjEzS
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman honored Tuba City High School’s Kimberley Williams during Teacher appreciation Week.
Coach Kim Williams is an inspiration to all the students lucky to have her as a teacher and coach. She strives to provide opportunities for her athletes that will help them understand the world through the lens of athleticism. #TeacherAppreciationWeek pic.twitter.com/Qq0eJGY7va
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) May 8, 2020
See what students in Yuma schools are learning.
Mrs. Hazen: “Do you know the “Soap that Floats” was invented by accident? Do other bars of soap float? I am so excited that students are still curious, and are #StillLearning, even though we are not together in our classroom at Alice Byrne!” #ONEteam #ONEcommunity #YSD1 #ONEgoal pic.twitter.com/XgmGQIzfFj
— Yuma District 1 (@YumaDistrict1) May 8, 2020
Cave Creek Unified shared graduation plans with students’ families.
Students and Parents of the Class of 2020: We are pleased to announce the update on the Class of 2020 graduation celebrations. Thanks to the hard work of the Celebration Committee, we will offer a Dual Graduation Event. See CCUSD’s Facebook page for the full announcement. pic.twitter.com/iGVCP2YwSU
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) May 8, 2020
Updated May 7: The Arizona Senate will end its legislative session on Friday, Senate President Karen Fann said Thursday morning, and the House of Representative will meet at 1 p.m. on Friday.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Statement from Senate President @FannKfann #AZSenate #SineDie pic.twitter.com/9m2anuJKAc
— AZSenateRepublicans (@AZSenateGOP) May 7, 2020
If both houses of the Arizona Legislature sine die, or end the session, that means all the bills that were not approved by both houses before they recessed are effectively dead.
House Speaker Bowers has informed his members that the House will convene at 1pm Friday, though his email didn’t say whether they’ll actually sine die. https://t.co/bMBpNxb60m
— Jeremy Duda (@jeremyduda) May 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 9,945 from 9,707 yesterday, and 450 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
The Trump administration will not implement the CDC’s 17-page draft recommendation for reopening America, a senior CDC official confirms. https://t.co/DhZ1wCc4CB
— CNN (@CNN) May 7, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 5,196 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,465 in Pima County, 912 in Navajo County, 618 in Coconino County, 530 in Pinal County, 152 in Yavapai County, 630 in Apache County, 148 in Yuma County, 158 in Mohave County, 40 in Cochise County, 38 in Santa Cruz County, 19 in Graham County, 20 in La Paz County, 17 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.
The University’s latest estimates recommended stalling reopening until the end of May. https://t.co/J4jzntF54n
— The State Press (@statepress) May 7, 2020

“I just sit and cry because I don’t know what’s going to happen or if it’s going to get worse — if she’s going to get worse,” says the mother of one girl at a treatment facility where 42 teens have tested positive for COVID-19
— Andrew Oxford (@andrewboxford) May 7, 2020
@lilyalta reports https://t.co/3V1v2ITE61
People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,742, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,309 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Since the coronavirus pandemic gripped the United States, Americans have been told to avoid emergency rooms and hospitals if possible. But now there are reports from across the country that suggest the warning may be in fact too effective. https://t.co/N3Woxsxyza
— AZPM (@azpublicmedia) May 7, 2020
Forty-five percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 16% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 18% Native American, 14% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.
More men, 55%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older – 354 – have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

The Navajo Nation in Arizona and adjacent states has been hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic and will get $600 million to help battle the deadly virus. https://t.co/ertMqOAp39
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) May 7, 2020
News outlets frequently share the latest data outlining the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 and deaths resulting from it.
— 12 News (@12News) May 7, 2020
However, there are questions about how those numbers are being reported. Our sister station in Texas looked into it. https://t.co/GX3sPjt8dp

There were 224 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.

There is a free training program to help small businesses get access to CARES act capital they need.
Have you heard about The #CARESAct Readiness Program for #SmallBusinesses? @AZChamber @ASBA & @azcommerce are offering a FREE training program to help both novice & experienced borrowers navigate the CARES Act and get access to the capital they need. INFO➡️https://t.co/Dtbj9gLSL3 pic.twitter.com/4uvtrvGWuf
— Arizona League (@AzCities) May 7, 2020
U.S. News & World report encourages medical field students to develop cultural competence in five ways.
For those planning to enter medical school and even current medical students, understanding what cultural competence means and working to hone this quality is essential for taking care of patient populations with differing ethnic backgrounds and beliefs.https://t.co/3wUehJfjTD
— U.S. News Education (@USNewsEducation) May 7, 2020
High school valedictorians and salutatorians are recording their speeches to be broadcast at KOLD News Studios.
#ClassOf2020 Graduation speeches being recorded at @KOLDNews Studios by our Valedictorian Aaron Kuzdal & our Salutatorian Ciana Calkins this morning. #ClearVision2020 pic.twitter.com/gblkENEWsN
— Pueblo Warriors (@pueblowarriors) May 7, 2020
Mesa United Way will distribute books donated by Kids Need to Read to help 250 families of Mesa Public School students living in motels.
KNTR delivered 1,652 books to @MesaUnitedWay, which is assisting in @mpsaz efforts to provide weekly resources to 250 families living in motels along Main St: “We’ve been able to pack up enough books for each student to receive 2 books each Friday for the next 3 weeks.” #Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/wMGtAQzCSv
— kidsneedtoread (@kidsneedtoread) May 7, 2020
Would you like to learn more about renewable energy? Then join this livestream created for high school students at 10 a.m. on May 8.
Students: Are you ready to explore renewable energy? Join us Friday, May 8 at 10 a.m. for Renewable Students! Created for high school students, it’s all about solar, wind, and hydro power. We’ll be live streaming so tune in at https://t.co/jOFEU2ZAMc or from our Facebook page. pic.twitter.com/g4cJEmLBFn
— TEP (@TEPenergy) May 7, 2020
A Cave Creek student describes her teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week.
IT’S NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK! This is how Audrey describes her Black Mountain Elementary School teacher, Ms. Parmeley – BOBCAT PRIDE! pic.twitter.com/5A7Oax2cQw
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) May 7, 2020
A Saguaro High School Spanish teacher created a plan for students to work as interpreters at Scottsdale City Court.
Saguaro Spanish teacher Erin Dahl created a unique way for students to continue learning the language. She developed an internship course, where students would work as interpreters at the Scottsdale City Court. Read about her future plans for the program: https://t.co/jl73HqHKzI.
— Scottsdale Unified School District (@ScottsdaleUSD) May 7, 2020
Dysart Unified congratulated one of their teachers who recently earned her Master’s degree.
We would like to congratulate Mrs. Perry from @MtnViewLions who recently earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from @gcu! Even though she wasn’t able to participate in a traditional ceremony, it is still a great accomplishment worth celebrating! Congrats Mrs. Perry! #WeAreDysart pic.twitter.com/EyHKld5cHK
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) May 7, 2020
Updated May 6: The Arizona Department of Health Services told a modeling team of researchers from ASU and U of A to stop their work predicting the spread of COVID-19 in Arizona on Monday night in an email. according to an ABC 15 Arizona story.
Officials said team told to “pause” work to allow state to use secret modeling figures from FEMA. https://t.co/ho73AbGfuo
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) May 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 9,707 from 9,305 yesterday, and 426 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: A public health expert whose work was abruptly halted by DHS yesterday said the decision was politically motivated and part of a half-baked attempt to justify reopening Arizona as soon as possible.https://t.co/WkeKP9zh2b
— Andrew Nicla (@AndrewNicla) May 7, 2020
JUST IN: @ASU telling me that their team will continue its research, and will make these updates publicly available. #COVID19 https://t.co/6GXxdyKXp1 pic.twitter.com/aUekoE4b1c
— Nicole Grigg (@NicoleSGrigg) May 7, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 5,138 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,425 in Pima County, 892 in Navajo County, 588 in Coconino County, 497 in Pinal County, 140 in Yavapai County, 612 in Apache County, 134 in Yuma County, 150 in Mohave County, 40 in Cochise County, 37 in Santa Cruz County, 19 in Graham County, 18 in La Paz County, 15 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.
New state by state testing numbers are out and Arizona is ….(drumroll please)…
— The AZ – abc15 – Data Guru (@Garrett_Archer) May 6, 2020
…
…still last in per capita testing. (womp womp)
Per capita summary stats:
Maximum: 75.12
Mean: 25.33
Minimum: 13.2 (<-That’s us)

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,645, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,257 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Your guide to navigating the pandemic:
— NPR (@NPR) May 7, 2020
🇺🇸 How fast is the coronavirus spreading in your state? https://t.co/lpwVZmLkCR
😷 This trick could boost cloth mask protection: https://t.co/1VTxhvmCfl
👩⚕️ What experts are learning about symptoms: https://t.co/qMlFHgZxO2
Forty-six percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 14% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 19% Native American, 15% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.

More men, 55%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 331 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

There were 212 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.

Maricopa Community Colleges are creating personal protective gear for medical workers.
Maricopa Community Colleges are utilizing 3D printers to produce and donate PPE to health care facilities and first responders across the Valley.https://t.co/hbAsyGb5La
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) May 7, 2020
Supt. Kathy Hoffman thanked school nurses today.
Arizona’s school nurses are vital to our communities. Their dedication to the health, safety, and social-emotional wellbeing of every student is something I am thankful for every day, and I’m appreciative of the ways that they have stepped up during this crisis. #SchoolNurseDay pic.twitter.com/QDsyCR27g0
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) May 6, 2020
Students gave their teacher a big surprise.
Scottsdale elementary school teacher receives ‘big’ surprise from her studentshttps://t.co/FbobvL2Clm pic.twitter.com/dLxzfeYzb4
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) May 7, 2020
Higley Schools congratulated teacher Hope Berg who was named Higley Traditional Academy 2020 Teacher of the Year.
Congratulations Higley Traditional Academy 2020 Teacher of the Year Hope Berg. Hope is a model of character and integrity for students and the HTA community. To learn more about Hope visit https://t.co/LilBk8G0AM #ThankATeacher #growlearnlead pic.twitter.com/QjDi3f62nt
— Higley Schools (@higleydistrict) May 7, 2020
Phoenix Union High School District reminded students to pick up their cap, gown and a yard sign from their school.
#PXU SENIORS WE MISS YOU! Don’t forget to pick up your Cap & Gown and a #Classof2020 Yard Sign at your campus! Camelback, Central, Franklin Police & Fire, Bioscience, Cesar Chavez, and Carl Hayden will begin distributing these items tomorrow.#ThisIsWhoWeAre pic.twitter.com/swakTX9aHd
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) May 7, 2020
Updated May 5: Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 9,305 from 8,919 yesterday, and 395 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
BREAKING: A collection of news organizations, including @ABC15, are suing @AZDHS in order to reveal Arizona long-term care facilities with COVID-19 outbreaks.
— Dave Biscobing (@DaveBiscobing15) May 5, 2020
The outlets include @AZcentral, @12News, @azfamily.https://t.co/QtMtCXDlqe
In Maricopa County, there are 4,929 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,379 in Pima County, 869 in Navajo County, 561 in Coconino County, 478 in Pinal County, 126 in Yavapai County, 576 in Apache County, 115 in Yuma County, 147 in Mohave County, 39 in Cochise County, 35 in Santa Cruz County, 19 in Graham County, 16 in La Paz County, 14 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,491, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,181 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

NEW: “TGen partners with a Phoenix-area hospital system to test COVID-19 treatment.” (via @stephanieinnes) https://t.co/sDC37qn2Om
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) May 5, 2020
Forty-five percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 14% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 19% Native American, 15% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.

More men, 56%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 308 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

Air Force One has landed in PHX! @dougducey waiting on the tarmac in the 90° weather to be the first to welcome @realDonaldTrump to AZ. This is his first Presidential trip since the #CoronavirusOutbreak. @KTAR923 pic.twitter.com/3A1Twnfn80
— Ali Vetnar (@Ali_Vetnar) May 5, 2020
There were 208 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.

Sen. Victoria Steele says entire wing of Tucson nursing home tests positive for COVID-19 https://t.co/oiElDaEY54 pic.twitter.com/5zRNkmIYhl
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) May 5, 2020
Expect More Arizona and Save Our Schools Arizona thank teachers for their great work with students during Teacher Appreciation Day.
#AZTeachersRock! Today’s the day to #ThankATeacher. Need ideas for how to celebrate, visit https://t.co/y71sLZT2MI. https://t.co/40MbEjbihz
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) May 5, 2020
Arizona Science Center invites people to explore the science of cooking with a webinar on May 8 at 4 p.m.
Join #AzScienceCenter and @MCulinaryAZ LIVE as we explore the surprising science we find every day in the kitchen. May 8 | 4 p.m.
— ArizonaScienceCenter (@azsciencecenter) May 2, 2020
Space is limited. Registration required.
To register visit: https://t.co/s3g4C2QoF5 pic.twitter.com/r86abRHbJ3
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman celebrated teachers today also.
Our first #TeacherAppreciationWeek shout-out is Jeanna Hodges, a kindergarten teacher at Desert Oasis. She was nominated by a parent who shared, “Ms. Hodges es una maestra muy profesional, paciente y amorosa con sus alumnos.”
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) May 4, 2020
Thank you for caring for our students and families! pic.twitter.com/s9iXHBuf9i
One in six high school seniors say that COVID-19 has changed their plans to attend college in the fall, according to PBS NewsHour.
Roughly one in six high school seniors say they definitely or most likely will change their plans to attend college in the fall because of the coronavirus, according to a survey by Art & Science Group. https://t.co/HrlLW4jw0r (via @hechingerreport)
— PBS NewsHour (@NewsHour) May 5, 2020
As classes comes to an end for the semester, Arizona State University’s Michael Crow thanked teachers for all they do for students during Teacher Appreciation Day.
As our academic year ends and graduation nears, I want to convey my thanks – from one teacher to another – for all you do to help learners realize their dreams. Your work and dedication propels our world forward. 👏👏👏 #TeacherAppreciationDay pic.twitter.com/kFgaCNWwau
— Michael Crow (@michaelcrow) May 5, 2020
Scottsdale Unified will open its Kids Club Summer Camps May 26.
Kids Club Summer Camps are still set to open May 26 at Hopi Elementary, Pima Traditional & Redfield Elementary. We have hired extra staff to provide a healthy and safe environment and we will follow all CDC guidelines. Visit https://t.co/4P2HHEboWE for updates. pic.twitter.com/f0unVbAFNI
— Scottsdale Unified School District (@ScottsdaleUSD) May 5, 2020
Tempe Union High School District congratulated winners of it’s 2020 Excellence in Education Awards.
Congratulations to all of our 2020 Excellence in Education Award Winners! We are so thankful to have these amazing educators in our Tempe Union High School District community.
— TUHSD News (@TUHSD_News) May 5, 2020
Thank you for celebrating our educators, @AZTempeDiablos! #ExcellenceInEducation pic.twitter.com/qPYhzHjMvG
WestEd shows what differentiated learning look like for catching students up after school closures for COVID-19.
In the context of the response to #COVID19, students are grouped based on need and funds are braided to cover salaries for teachers and interventionists for 10-25 hours of “catch-up” services for each identified student. #webinar #education #edchat pic.twitter.com/DxAVnIY4SL
— WestEd (@WestEd) May 5, 2020
Tucson Unified and the City of Tucson teamed up to improve safety for students walking to Tucson High School.
Tucson Unified School District and the City of Tucson teamed up to improve pedestrian safety in front of Tucson High School. The median islands and railings are installed, crews are finishing up ADA ramps. The project will be ready for students to safely cross very soon! pic.twitter.com/9cFtURfBjA
— Tucson DOT (@Tucson_DOT) May 4, 2020
Moon Valley Student Council members honored teachers with posters during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Moon Valley STUCO honored their teachers with posters during #TeacherAppreciationWeek. #ExcellenceContinues #MoonValleyProud #WeAreGUHSD pic.twitter.com/OdP7c9CoYG
— GlendaleUnionHSDAZ (@GlendaleUnionAZ) May 5, 2020
Peoria Arts Ed congratulated a Peoria Unified third grader whose design was selected to be displayed on a utility box.
An exciting addition to the community! Congrats to @PeoriaUnified11 Frontier 3rd grader Blake S. whose design was selected for @PeoriaAZ Councilmember Edwards Utility Box design contest! It will be displayed for the 1 year & is certain to bring #PeoriaUnifiedPride to everyone! pic.twitter.com/D1Dn9sgXcr
— Peoria Arts Ed (@PeoriaArtsEd) May 5, 2020
Cartwright School District thanked its entire staff for Teacher Appreciation Week.
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week we are saying thank you to our entire staff, not just teachers. Check out the video:https://t.co/NlrXBOUglj #TeacherAppreciationWeek2020
— Cartwright District (@CartwrightSD) May 5, 2020
Dysart Unified thanked staff members too.
This week, we would like to celebrate and recognize our #DysartExtraordinary staff members. Thank you for going above and beyond in your dedication and commitment to students, peers, and our community. We truly appreciate all that you do for the #WeAreDysart family! pic.twitter.com/8InvHQARWg
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) May 5, 2020
Updated May 4: Gov. Doug Ducey, Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ and Arizona and Arizona National Guard’s Maj. Gen. Michael McGuire updated Arizonans on COVID-19 efforts and some next steps for getting back to business.
Arizona Department of Health Services Video: COVID-19 News Conference 5/1/2020
The Stay at Home order remains in place until May 15, Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Ducey said there is a downward trajectory of COVID-19 like illness in Arizona.
“We have been steady across the course of these tests with a downward trajectory over the past two weeks,” Gov. Ducey said.

Gov. Ducey said the first weekend of the Arizona Testing Blitz was a success and “the next two Saturdays will be a major expansion of testing.”
“This downward trend helps us make economic decisions safely,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov @dougducey says Arizona is ‘headed in the right direction’ in terms of these factors. ‘This is a green light to make additional decisions for our first step forward,’ he says. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/rbNN4b9gxP
— Maria Polletta🌵 (@mpolletta) May 4, 2020
The state’s goal is to test everyone in long-term care facilities, Gov. Ducey said.
In addition, if a loved one contracts COVID-19 in a long-term care facility “You will be notified,” Gov. Ducey said.
#BREAKING @dougducey #covid_19 concerning long-term care facilities announces new executive order pic.twitter.com/aMjRbBHtPd
— Sean McLaughlin 3TV/CBS5 (@SeanOnTV) May 4, 2020
Testing will be increased for corrections inmates and employees alike, Gov. Ducey said.
“We want to return stronger as a state,” Gov. Ducey said.
“It will be a gradual and phased in process and that will continue,” Gov. Ducey said.

‘We will prioritize public health to return stronger over time,” Gov. Ducey said.
Testing will increase and the state will phase in getting back to business, Gov. Ducey said.
On Friday, May 8, barbers and salons may reopen with public health protections and using CDC guidelines and enhanced sanitation protocols, Gov. Ducey said in an executive order.
Monday, May 11 dine-in services will reopen with physical distancing requirements inside restaurants, Gov. Ducey said.
More: You can soon be able to eat inside a restaurant, with some restrictions. @KTAR923 pic.twitter.com/JtokjPfAmh
— Martha Maurer (@MaurerMartha) May 4, 2020
Vulnerable adults with serious underlying health conditions should remain at home, and telework should continue as it has, Gov. Ducey said.
#BREAKING @dougducey #covid_19 concerning long-term care facilities announces new executive order pic.twitter.com/aMjRbBHtPd
— Sean McLaughlin 3TV/CBS5 (@SeanOnTV) May 4, 2020
The state will continue to work with fitness and hospitality industries toward guidelines on ways to re-open, Gov. Ducey said.
.@dougducey says next announcement(s) will be focused on fitness centers and pools. Says that even with salon, restaurant updates, Arizonans shouldn’t linger in public when avoidable. ‘Get your hair cut, get something to eat and head home. That’s where it’s safest.’ #COVID19
— Maria Polletta🌵 (@mpolletta) May 4, 2020
“We don’t want a second wave. We’re making decisions with the confidence that we are going in the right direction,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Says movie theater industry has requested a date of July 15th – when Hollywood says they’ll start providing “new product” or new movies
— Matt Galka Fox 10 (@MattGalkaFox10) May 4, 2020
Some Arizona businesses began a gradual re-opening today following guidelines from Gov. Doug Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services.
ICYMI: There are now guidelines for retailers who want to open. But do they all make sense, like closing fitting rooms? https://t.co/TrPYiL69yd pic.twitter.com/PU7zGsgxld
— azcapmedia (@azcapmedia) May 4, 2020
This has been such an astronomical rise in unemployment – the state has gone from several thousand unemployed to more than 480 thousand unemployed due to COVID-19 and the system to apply for unemployment benefits has been stressed, Gov. Ducey said.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 8,919 from 8.364 yesterday, and 362 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
FORTY STUDENTS TESTED POSITIVE at Mingus Mountain Academy near Prescott Valley. The boarding school serves at-risk adolescent girls. Last week, 2 students went to ER and were released. The county tested 60 and 2/3 tested positive. 2 staff members also tested positive. #12News
— JOE DANA (@JoeDanaReports) May 4, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 4,751 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,346 in Pima County, 800 in Navajo County, 540 in Coconino County, 468 in Pinal County, 93 in Yavapai County, 549 in Apache County, 110 in Yuma County, 141 in Mohave County, 39 in Cochise County, 34 in Santa Cruz County, 18 in Graham County, 14 in La Paz County, 14 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,322, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,125 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Forty-six percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 13% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 19% Native American, 15% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.
More men, 56%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 280 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

The confirmed COVID-19 cases by day chart continues to show the largest spikes in the weeks following Easter and Passover.

There were 201 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.
66 percent of the total COVID-19 deaths in Maricopa County have been residents at long-term care facilities: https://t.co/wsCvn7kU4k
— Anne Ryman (@anneryman) May 4, 2020

An Arizona group is looking to recall Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey for issuing what it says are unconstitutional executive orders during the coronavirus outbreak. https://t.co/f19vlolyUz
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) May 4, 2020
See what hotels’ new cleaning guidelines are after COVID-19.
Hotel industry has new safety guidelines during coronavirus pandemic https://t.co/ciuDG2hIZq
— azcentral (@azcentral) May 4, 2020
Looking for tips on cleaning your home during COVID-19, then take a look at the National Council for Safety, Protection and Wellness’ guide by clicking here or on the social media post below.
Check out this guide for tips on how to keep your #home safe and #healthy against flu and #coronavirus germs: https://t.co/MZXcrY1kV6
— SafeHome.org (@safehomeorg) April 7, 2020
In response to the concern about COVID-19, Maricopa County is considering several days of in-person voting for the August election.
Maricopa County considering 10 to 14 days of in-person voting for August election https://t.co/9N7NwY8OFy pic.twitter.com/2RcqtiPizP
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) May 4, 2020
Also, the Secretary of State’s Office has expanded collecting signatures online to county, municipal and precinct committee offices
.@SecretaryHobbs announces that the Secretary of State’s Office has expanded the E-Qual system for collecting signatures online to county, municipal and PC candidates. Phoenix, Sierra Vista and Huachuca City are among the first to take part. pic.twitter.com/NWxpKprl1e
— Jeremy Duda (@jeremyduda) May 4, 2020
A panel of education leaders say schools need to be prepared for closures again if COVID-19 resurges in their area.
When schools reopen, they should be prepared for rolling closures if the coronavirus resurges in their area, say recommendations released today by a panel of former state, district, and charter school administrators. https://t.co/ZelnVMm48y
— Politics K-12 (@PoliticsK12) May 4, 2020
Find out what schools and states must report about how they use COVID-19 aid.
What Schools, States Must Report About How They Use Coronavirus Aid https://t.co/t8SmiTE3mD via @educationweek
— NAESP (@NAESP) May 4, 2020
Supt. of Public Education Kathy Hoffman thanked teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Special education teacher Valerie Daren always goes the extra mile for students. By using their input & encouraging them to attend their IEP meetings, her students are engaged & excited about learning.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) May 4, 2020
Thank you for supporting students in SPED! #TeacherAppreciationWeek pic.twitter.com/bYMpKZNNLl
A Desert Willow student describes her teacher during Teacher Appreciation Week.
IT’S NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK! This is how Mila describes Desert Willow Elementary School’s, Ms. Grimshaw – THANK YOU – ROADRUNNER PRIDE! pic.twitter.com/Y7n0TJyqxD
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) May 4, 2020
Chandler Unified thanked teachers with a unique social media post.
Groovy! A shootout to @CasteelColts teachers to kick off @TeacherAppreciationWeek. https://t.co/OoouJs5YCS
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) May 4, 2020
Alhambra Elementary thanked Valley of the Sun United Way for donations of hygiene products for their families.
Alhambra thanks @myvsuw for donations of hygiene products for our families! Bags are prepped. Our partners at @AAAauto will be delivering bags to 50 Alhambra families next week. #UnitePhx pic.twitter.com/wd2ikCLw1o
— Alhambra Elementary School District (@alhambra_esd) May 4, 2020
A Dysart Unified teacher celebrated Star Wars Day with his students this morning.
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) May 4, 2020
Goodyear Police Dept. got into the spirit of Star Wars Day with this social media post.
Sometimes you just have to go undercover! #MayThe4thBeWithYou #StarWarsDay #GYPDCares Photo credit: My Geeky Gallery pic.twitter.com/gtpNk0wayb
— Goodyear Police Dept (@Goodyearpolice) May 4, 2020
East Valley Institute of Technology’s Dr. Chad Wilson wrote that career and technical education and the trades are vital to Arizona’s workforce in a guest column that ran in Arizona Capitol Times.
GUEST OPINION: COVID-19 crisis shows how vital CTE and trades are to Arizona’s workforce https://t.co/0PxaciTUQb via @EVITnews
— AZ Capitol Times (@AzCapitolTimes) May 4, 2020
If you’re taking part in ASU’s first virtual commencement here are some tips.
Are you participating in @ASU‘s first virtual commencement next week or do you know someone who is? Share this custom toolkit made for the Class of 2020! #ASUgrad
— ASU President Office (@ASUPresOffice) May 4, 2020
Listen to a podcast that covers how colleges and universities are coping with the pandemic with a focus on equity and lower-income students.
New podcast from @insidehighered: Hear candid conversations w/ #highered newsmakers on how colleges & universities are coping with the pandemic — w/ a special focus on #edequity & lower-income students. #education #edchat https://t.co/Z78uEn9rGJ
— WestEd (@WestEd) May 4, 2020
Updated May 2: Arizona’s COVID-19 testing blitz began today and will continue over three weekends.
“COVID-19 ‘testing blitz’ begins in Arizona with some lines and not much waiting.” (via @stephanieinnes and @brieannafrank) https://t.co/mfbY80O1Re
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) May 2, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 8,364 from 7,962 yesterday, and 348 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Public health officials with the Navajo Nation announced 166 new cases of COVID-19 and a total of 73 deaths Friday, in a spike that came after the disease curve began to flatten on the reservation.https://t.co/gewY8B6Rct
— Fronteras Desk (@fronterasdesk) May 2, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 4,421 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,300 in Pima County, 766 in Navajo County, 512 in Coconino County, 435 in Pinal County, 87 in Yavapai County, 507 in Apache County, 89 in Yuma County, 127 in Mohave County, 39 in Cochise County, 34 in Santa Cruz County, 17 in Graham County, 14 in La Paz County, 14 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.
As Arizonans enter a new month of self-isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health experts warn that too much social isolation and negative news can take a toll on those with depression or suicidal thoughts. https://t.co/hYEt1NST1g
— azcentral (@azcentral) May 2, 2020

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 3,079, followed by people 65 years and older with 2,037 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Tempe received $500,000 from Emergency Solutions Grants through the coronavirus relief bill which will help provide housing and basic needs for the homeless.https://t.co/uWGGgGYhsZ
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) May 2, 2020
Forty-five percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 15% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 20% Native American, 14% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 1% Other/Non-Hispanic.

More men, 56%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 267 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.
Numerous employees at a Tucson funeral home contracted coronavirus, but experts say it is unlikely they were infected by the body of a COVID-19 victim. https://t.co/0s7ejWomJb
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) May 2, 2020

There were 197 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on congregate settings such as assisted living, long-term care facilities, prisons, rehab facilities and more.

The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office says it has confirmed the first inmate in county jails to test positive for COVID-19.@newsjunkyjimmy reports. https://t.co/ldoS2npgYD
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) May 2, 2020
Drivers are being warned to stay away from I-17 in Anthem where firefighters are battling a brush fire that’s spread to 200 acres.
DC-10 Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) ordered to this fire north of Phoenix Northbound I-17 lanes in Anthem closed due to brush fire | https://t.co/kF4hwvkGnb https://t.co/IhBdAsCAgo
— Jim Cross (@Crossfire923) May 2, 2020
REMINDER: I-17 NB is CLOSED at New River Road due to a continuing brush fire. All traffic must exit at New River Road. There is no estimated time to reopen the highway. #phxtraffic pic.twitter.com/Jsmu9KAOmq
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) May 2, 2020
Share a story about an influential teacher to help celebrate Arizona’s teachers during Arizona Teacher Appreciation Day on May 5.
.@DHallDbacks: May 5 is Arizona’s Teacher Appreciation Day! Will you help celebrate? Tell us a story about an influential teacher who impacted your life or send a message of thanks to all of Arizona’s amAZing educators & school staff! https://t.co/y71sLZT2MI #AZTeachersRock pic.twitter.com/SEoWXkvwyD
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) May 2, 2020
Read about a Tucson school district is visiting students at their homes to connect with kids they haven’t been able to reach for the past two months.
One Tucson school district is making home visits in an effort to connect with kids who have been unreachable over the last two months. https://t.co/HTJBrArO6H
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) May 2, 2020
School supplied collected during a donation drive have been given to Amphi and Tucscon Unified schools for their students.
Thank You, Tucson! We distributed ALL of the collected school supplies plus 1536 books collected from our drive last weekend to 22 Title 1 schools in the Amphi and TUSD districts. #LiteracyConnects #StayConnected pic.twitter.com/kNzsUCMteJ
— Literacy Connects (@LitConnectsAZ) May 2, 2020
Tucson Values Teachers thanked Helios Education Foundation and other people who donated to them during Arizona Gives Day on April 7 and shared how it will benefit local teachers.
Thanks to @HeliosEdFnd & others, we reached our goal of raising $3K on @azgives!
— TucsonValuesTeachers (@Tweet4Teachers) May 2, 2020
Not only were we able to support teachers with these funds, but we were able to support a local business by purchasing & distributing gift cards to Jonathan’s Educational Resources.#TucsonTogether pic.twitter.com/0lX1tatoEr
Williams Field High School’s English Department reminds students to take an active role in their life stories.
New Story: Thank you English Dept! https://t.co/WH7wYQpF63
— Williams Field (@WFHighSchool) May 1, 2020
Updated May 1: More than 12 military aircraft from Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona National Guard did a flyover above the Phoenix metropolitan area this afternoon to honor healthcare workers, first responders and other essential workers in the COVID-19 fight.
We loved this… ✈️✈️✈️
— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) May 1, 2020
To salute frontline workers, several members from Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard did a flyover above the Valley today. Thank you to ALL of the workers helping to keep us safe, we appreciate you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/lmdHvNnRWt
The Arizona Department of Health Services reminds people that this is the first week of the Arizona COVID-19 testing blitz and to check its website for more information and to pre-register for testing.
Arizonans can find the nearest #AZTestingBlitz location and hours of operation, as well as pre-register, here: https://t.co/S2g2cpZmXC #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/6Us8tf2uRo
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) May 2, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 7,962 from 7,648 yesterday, and 330 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
More than 4,900 workers in meat and poultry processing facilities have contracted Covid-19 and at least 20 have died, according to a US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report https://t.co/G8icmY3sLR
— CNN (@CNN) May 1, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 4,156 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,267 in Pima County, 741 in Navajo County, 498 in Coconino County, 417 in Pinal County, 82 in Yavapai County, 478 in Apache County, 82 in Yuma County, 122 in Mohave County, 39 in Cochise County, 33 in Santa Cruz County, 17 in Graham County, 15 in La Paz County, 13 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,942, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,943 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

MORE: Officials say to date, 123 Maricopa County jail inmates have been tested, 15 inmates are in isolation with test results pending. There have been 107 negative tests. #12News
— Bianca Buono (@BiancaBuono) May 2, 2020
Forty-six percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 13% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 21% Native American, 14% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.
A Chandler nursing center said Friday that 40 of its residents have tested positive for COVID-19 and four have died since the first case of the virus was reported last week in the facility.https://t.co/V7Pfu5UrMX
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) May 1, 2020
More men, 58%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 252 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

Some businesses say they’re going to open ahead of the schedule Gov. Ducey set out earlier this week.
Businesses vowed to defy Ducey’s stay-home orders. Today, some are following through.https://t.co/Vsu0rWL77J
— azcentral (@azcentral) May 1, 2020
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said Gov. Ducey’s decision wasn’t easy, but it was right.
The decision @dougducey
— Mayor Kate Gallego (@MayorGallego) April 30, 2020
made wasn’t an easy one, but was the right one. We encourage the Governor to commit to a 14-day decline in # of positive #COVID cases before moving forward on further reopening. @CDCgov guidelines are responsible-AZ should follow. https://t.co/vrUWyKJAJU pic.twitter.com/GtbLn6CDqV
Gov. Ducey released further guidance for businesses that are re-opening today.
Taking these responsible steps will help grow confidence and ensure we don’t just reopen businesses, but do it successfully. I’m grateful to the business owners and employees putting safety first as we take continued steps to reenergize Arizona’s economy. #ReturnStonger https://t.co/lKrGxiPoyD
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) May 1, 2020
But people who don’t think the state is getting back to business quickly enough have launched a recall effort against Gov. Ducey.
Anti-shutdown activists launch recall effort against @dougducey, via @JerodMacEvoy https://t.co/kLVGunYbJo
— Arizona Mirror (@ArizonaMirror) May 1, 2020
Gov. Doug Ducey shows an actual spine, refuses to give in to the ‘open it all’ crowd https://t.co/gV58ZuvG0n via @azcentral
— Laurie Roberts (@LaurieRoberts) April 30, 2020
The debate about reopening businesses in two photos, from @eliimadaliphoto:
— Lorraine Longhi 🌵 (@lolonghi) May 1, 2020
Frustrated business owners say they’d rather “die defending our freedom.”
But Gladys Daniel, 85, and her caregiver worry about the life-or-death consequences of opening too soon. https://t.co/0Pmb1gEFLT pic.twitter.com/uGS09QqakA
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman thanked all the people creating and serving meals to students during National School Lunch Hero Day.
Creating and serving 3 million school meals during COVID19 is no easy task. Take a look at some of these stories of Arizona’s #LunchHeroes ➡️ https://t.co/hml3iiYb1W#SchoolLunchHeroDay pic.twitter.com/H8U9DbpQ53
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) May 1, 2020
— LeeAnn Aguilar Lawlor (@csd83super) May 1, 2020
Today is School Lunch Hero Day. We are so lucky to have the BEST cafeteria staff at #CamelbackHS! They work tirelessly to ensure that our students don’t go hungry.
— Camelback High School Spartans (@CamelbackHigh) May 1, 2020
🧡💙 #PXU #WeAreTheSHIELD #ThisIsWhoWeAre #ClosedNotClosed pic.twitter.com/EYjCqZ8DkX
Find ways to let your kids teachers know you appreciate everything they do during Teacher Appreciations Week May 4th through 8th.
#AZTeachersRock #ThankATeacher https://t.co/GFEJhkXM5W
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) May 1, 2020
More children are seeking help at an emergency youth center in Southern Arizona during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An emergency shelter for youth in Southern Arizona reports that throughout the COVID-19 pandemic more children are seeking out its safety, which has led to a need for more staff, food and cleaning supplies.https://t.co/SsEkRKY8g1
— AZPM (@azpublicmedia) May 2, 2020
Rio Rico High School seniors have said they’d like to celebrate graduation with a parade and details will follow.
Class of 2020, We..Will…Celebrate…You! #Parade #OurTown #RioRicoStrong #HawkPride #SCV35AbovetheBar #2020 pic.twitter.com/JagRG6e1Ak
— Rio Rico High School (@rioricohigh) May 1, 2020
Dysart Unified, Peoria Unified and Deer Valley Unified shared their plan for graduation ceremonies in June in a social media post.
Graduation ceremonies for our four high schools are tentatively rescheduled for June 30 at State Farm Stadium. All ceremonies will be livestreamed but times and format are still to be determined. Please visit https://t.co/YGy32ya69g for additional information. #WeAreDysart pic.twitter.com/ygtkyIU7v5
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) May 1, 2020
DVUSD Families,
— Deer Valley Unified School District (@DVUSD) May 1, 2020
Today’s communication provides an update about the High School Graduation Ceremonies and Food Distribution Time Changes starting Monday, May 4.
Read attached or at https://t.co/TN0PmaNB1l pic.twitter.com/grtn5miUhR
Students! Here’s the high school graduation update you’ve been waiting for! For more information, visit our website at https://t.co/Z4KGVOn9SW.https://t.co/JwcyHQUGlZ
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) May 1, 2020
Kyrene Schools thanked their school leaders on School Principals’ Day.
Happy #SchoolPrincipalsDay! We are so grateful for our leaders. Our principals are the visionaries at their school, and their dedication, compassion and leadership doesn’t go unnoticed. You can join us in celebrating by sharing words of appreciation about your child’s principal. pic.twitter.com/ygp21ZeBqU
— KyreneSchools (@KyreneSchools) May 1, 2020
Updated April 30: Arizona Legislators won’t reconvene the session yet due to Gov. Doug Ducey’s stay-at-home order remaining in place until May 15.
Legislature won’t yet reconvene, as some lawmakers call for immediate end to stay-at-home order https://t.co/TvahdA6oY8
— azcentral (@azcentral) April 30, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 7,648 from 7,202 yesterday, and 320 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
THIS WEEKEND:
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 30, 2020
Arizona has teamed up with health care partners to launch the #AZTestingBlitz and expand #COVID19 testing for Arizonans. @AZDHS
Access details and pre-registration here: https://t.co/NAcR7kH7jz
Just had a call with business and community leaders across the state to discuss updated #COVID19 guidance and Arizona’s work to reenergize the economy. Thank you to @DrCaraChrist, @SandraWatsonAZ, @DebJohnsonAz and everyone who joined the call. pic.twitter.com/ARKmKcGGCe
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 30, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 3,972 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,241 in Pima County, 712 in Navajo County, 486 in Coconino County, 397 in Pinal County, 79 in Yavapai County, 449 in Apache County, 78 in Yuma County, 117 in Mohave County, 39 in Cochise County, 33 in Santa Cruz County, 16 in Graham County, 14 in La Paz County, 13 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

Tucson’s mayor said she backs Gov. Doug Ducey’s decision to extend his stay-at-home order through May 15. But she says she wanted more severe restrictions. https://t.co/i6A6RZtS9a
— Fronteras Desk (@fronterasdesk) April 30, 2020
People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,810, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,887 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

President @realDonaldTrump will travel to @honeywell
— Adam Waltz (@Adam_Waltz) April 30, 2020
in Phoenix on Tuesday, May 5. Honeywell is planning to hire 500 people to produce N-95 masks.
Honeywell currently implementing a mandatory two-week furlough for employees worldwide. @abc15 https://t.co/CbMoeSfffk
Forty-six percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 15% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 20% Native American, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 2% Other/Non-Hispanic.

More men, 58%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 244 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.
.@GoodwillAZ is the first in the nation to pass the new HealthyVerify certification created by Rose Law Group, which helps employers confirm they are safely prepared to reopen. Read this uplifting story and more like it: https://t.co/JRPLCBTeOO #GreaterPHXtogether
— Greater Phoenix Economic Council (@GPEC) April 30, 2020

A ripple effect of #Covid_19 – we know the restrictions on nursing home facilities and the problems some have been facing. But those same restrictions apply to pediatric care facilities. A Chandler mother has only seen her baby through a window for the past month #fox10phoenix pic.twitter.com/QMBFhWl28a
— Matt Galka Fox 10 (@MattGalkaFox10) April 30, 2020
The stay home order also means virtual visits for kids in foster care continue.
Virtual visits for kids in foster care will continue through May 29, @ArizonaDCS says. https://t.co/bmR9RowaZR
— Mary Jo Pitzl (@maryjpitzl) April 30, 2020
Looking to take a hike in a forest? The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds people that fees are still being enforced at national forests.
Although developed facilities @CoronadoNF remain closed, the Forest is otherwise open. Meantime, fee payment is still being enforced. If you go, follow CDC guidelines, be prepared for no restrooms, & pack out what you pack in. For more info, go to: https://t.co/D01Ro5WjPF pic.twitter.com/3R7Xh2Cr26
— AZ Game & Fish Dept (@azgfdTucson) April 30, 2020
About 80 percent of students in urban areas have access to the Internet, while just 60 percent of students in rural areas do, according to school superintendents.
School superintendents in urban areas of the state have estimated that 80% of their students have access to the internet, while only 60% in rural areas have access, according to the @AzCapitolTimes.https://t.co/jNR8x0E2z6
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) May 1, 2020
Expect More Arizona says students are getting left behind because of the widening opportunity gap.
“When we come out of this, we’re going to have a number of students, (through) no fault of their own, who are going to be left further behind because of the widening opportunity gap,” said Christine Thompson, the CEO of @ExpectMoreAZ.https://t.co/jNR8x0E2z6
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) April 30, 2020
Flagstaff Unified moved the last day for school for students to May 22 this year.
The Flagstaff Unified School District Governing Board has approved changes to the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year calendar, moving the last day for students to Friday, May 22. https://t.co/d5uz16ptVF
— Arizona Daily Sun (@azds) April 30, 2020
Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson invites you to take part in their cybersecurity workshops online.
Have you participated in our #cybersecurity workshops with @CIC_NICERC? There is one more workshop on May 6 that will explore cybersecurity activities that can be done in a virtual learning environment. Interested in attending? Register at https://t.co/AiugY0xWjx! #resources pic.twitter.com/NY5Me0HVXk
— Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson (@mcschoolsup) April 30, 2020
Dysart Education Foundation provided scholarships to help students complete their post-secondary education.
Congratulations to the recipients of the 2020-2021 Dysart Education Foundation Scholarships. DEF awarded a total of $62,500 to fifteen students to support their educational journey after graduation. For a full list of those awarded visit https://t.co/0p9FYJbpmx #WeAreDysart pic.twitter.com/JU2Jp2aZRJ
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) April 30, 2020
University of Arizona, Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University have announced that they plan to reopen in-person classes for students for the Fall semester.
Here’s an update on @ASU’s plans for the fall 2020 semester.
— Michael Crow (@michaelcrow) April 30, 2020
BREAKING NEWS: @NAU President Rita Cheng says in-person classes will resume for the fall 2020 semester. The University of Arizona and Arizona State have also announced a return to in-person classes for the fall.
— KNAU (@AZPubRadio) April 30, 2020
Updated April 29: Gov. Doug Ducey said the stay at home order due to COVID-19 cases remains in place with modifications until May 15 with a gradual, phased in re-opening of businesses and segments of the economy during a 3 p.m. press conference Wednesday.
The stay-at-home order was due to expire tomorrow.
Click here for Gov. Ducey’s new executive order on Returning Stronger.
“Arizona’s stay at home order remains in place until May 15 and Arizona’s economy begins to gradually reopen,” Gov. Ducey said.
Arizona Department of Health Services: April 29, 2020 COVID-19 News Conference
“Everyone is doing their part,” Gov. Ducey said about social distancing and staying home.
Gov. Ducey noted there is a downward trend in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19.
“Everyone in our state has been affected by COVID-19,” Gov. Ducey said about the 304 people who have died from the virus.
The decrease in deaths by week is good news, Gov. Ducey said.

“We’ve done nearly 70,000 tests in Arizona. We need more testing,” Gov. Ducey said. “We need diagnostic and antibody testing. We’re going to have a testing blitz this week.”
The diagnostic tests will tell you if you have COVID-19 right now, Gov. Ducey said.
“We’re also going to be ramping up antibody testing. What that tells you is if you’ve contracted COVID-19 in the past and have since recovered from it,” Gov. Ducey said.
“Going forward I just want you to know that we’re going to continue to act with both our heads and our hearts on this. We’re putting public health first,” Gov. Ducey said.
“Our travel restrictions order will be extended through May 15. In addition, our stay home, stay healthy, stay connected order is extended through May 15 with modifications,” Gov. Ducey said.

“We’ve earned where we are today, and we’re not going to undo this,” Gov. Ducey said.
“The objective is that we do return stronger,” Gov. Ducey said.
“This pandemic has dimmed our economy as a result of the sacrifice everyone in the state is making to slow the spread of this virus,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We’re going to return to physical and economic health the Arizona Way in a gradual way,” Gov. Ducey said.

“Were going to balance public health with returning stronger economically,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We’re going to make the decisions in a responsible way so we have safe participation,” Gov. Ducey said.
The next step in terms of breathing life back into small business will start Monday, May 4th with a partial re-opening of retail stores and an expansion of that on Friday, May 8th with physical distancing and sanitary requirements.
Dine-in restaurants may begin serving customers on Tuesday, May 12th and there will be more information on that released next week.
“We’re going to have ongoing announcements as data shapes our decisions,” Gov. Ducey said.

Earlier today, news media reported that religious leaders had asked Gov. Ducey to delay re-opening for business, but business leaders asked him to get back to work before more small businesses are forced to close.
Tim Lant, a mathematical epidemiologist at ASU, simulated what would happen in AZ under 5 reopening scenarios.
— Rebekah L. Sanders 🌵 (@RebekahLSanders) April 29, 2020
“I can say scientifically no, it’s not (yet) safe to reopen unless you’re planning on…shutting down again after a couple of weeks.” https://t.co/Cy7fqHOep3 @mpolletta
Executive Director Dr. Cara Christ said she would not release the number of COVID-19 cases by nursing home citing privacy concerns.
I don’t think people want their home addresses released with that information, Dr. Christ said.
Other states have released the names and locations of long-term care and assisted living facilities with confirmed COVID-19 cases, but Gov. Ducey, Dr. Christ, the Arizona Department of Corrections and Maricopa County Health Department have not, say public information and health privacy experts in an ABC 15 Arizona story.
Tonight on @abc15 at 6pm, you’re going to see that this issue is only going to get hotter. AZ can’t make up excuses any longer.
— Dave Biscobing (@DaveBiscobing15) April 29, 2020
We’re forcing the issue. The secrecy on long-term care facilities and prisons must stop.
We’re show the specific steps were taking to get the truth. https://t.co/sBfU8XLuMN
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 7,202 from 6,948 yesterday, and 304 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 3,723 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,215 in Pima County, 682 in Navajo County, 453 in Coconino County, 387 in Pinal County, 79 in Yavapai County, 392 in Apache County, 65 in Yuma County, 105 in Mohave County, 38 in Cochise County, 31 in Santa Cruz County, 10 in Graham County, 8 in La Paz County, 12 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

The mayors of Arizona’s biggest towns have been pushing back against pressure for @dougducey to re-open too soon. The governor is expected to make a statement today as his executive order comes to an end tomorrow. https://t.co/ybPpQ5u5CO
— Michel Marizco (@BorderReporter) April 29, 2020
People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,642, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,803 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego discusses how the city’s economy will be impacted by COVID-19 and what steps the state should take to reopen with @SylesteFox10. https://t.co/rWzMww5m8m
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) April 29, 2020
Forty-nine percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 13% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 18% Native American, 14% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 1% Other/Non-Hispanic.
Here is the flight path that Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard will take on Friday to honor workers on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak.
— 12 News (@12News) April 29, 2020
MORE: https://t.co/9ZcXZi9LrJ pic.twitter.com/dZ5YF3qzP4
More men, 57%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 233 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

Dr. Fauci expresses optimism about ‘significant, positive’ data from a trial of the possible Covid-19 treatment remdesivir https://t.co/lvtq1i450k pic.twitter.com/mLWPKr8Hp4
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) April 29, 2020
Phoenix’s Economic Development Department said 20 to 25% of small businesses in the city may not survive the COVID-19 pandemic.
A sobering and angering projection: 20 – 25% of Phoenix’s smallest businesses (30 employees or less) will not survive the COVID-19 crisis. 2/3 will not see federal help. #SmallBizRelief https://t.co/W86sDFKsba
— Local First Arizona (@LocalFirstAZ) April 29, 2020
Loan size decreased sharply in the second round of the paycheck protection program, according to a Phoenix Business Journal article.
Here’s an early look at how the second round of the Paycheck Protection Program has been going. #Phoenix https://t.co/QrfZb9pgtC
— PHX Business Journal (@phxbizjournal) April 29, 2020
The number of unemployed Arizonans continues to rise due to COVID-19 closures and is now at 470,000, according to a Capitol Media Services article.
The ranks of the AZ unemployed continue to rise, with tally of those filing for claims since virus outbreak and @dougducey orders now hitting 470,000 – 13 percent of the state workforce. https://t.co/yHpTFVeNbL
— azcapmedia (@azcapmedia) April 29, 2020
An astronaut gives advice on surviving isolation during this quarantine on PBS’ Arizona Horizon.
We’re all feeling the struggles of self-quarantine — and many of us are coping with cabin fever. On #AZHorizon, we seek advice from an astronaut who has experienced six months of isolation before; watch: https://t.co/KRfGoI6ZQl pic.twitter.com/QuzHHUCOmr
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) April 29, 2020
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman says there’s a plan to open schools for the next school year on KTAR 92.3 FM.
Arizona’s @Supt_Hoffman says the state is working on a plan to have public schools up and running for the next academic year.@GriseldaZetino has the details:https://t.co/cFljwgjOvk
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) April 29, 2020
Shadow Ridge High School’s Youth Alive Club set up a giving table to help families in need.
In another great example of giving back, students & staff from the Youth Alive Club @ShadowRidgeHS have set up a Giving Table, made possible through donations. They’re hoping it can make a difference in the lives of a couple families in need. ❤️#DysartExtraordinary pic.twitter.com/pYVPLutYHH
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) April 29, 2020
Staff cleaning out lockers to return items to students say seventh graders are the biggest packrats.
Thousands of lockers have been cleaned out at Thunderbolt Middle School and Lake Havasu High School, returning items to students.https://t.co/MiEMVYlHx0
— Today’s News Herald (@havasunews) April 29, 2020
Sabino HIgh School seniors picked up their caps and gowns today at the school.
It was so nice to see so many seniors today for cap and gown pickup at Sabino! @Sabino_HS @tucsonunified pic.twitter.com/3JU2L9D9qJ
— Ms. Smith (@MsSmithSabino) April 29, 2020
Mobile hotspot donations are helping Arizona kids learn online while schools remain closed.
.@azcommerce and @azedschools are collecting hotspots to help ensure all Arizona kids have the opportunity to learn and engage with others while schools are closed.
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 29, 2020
Details on how to donate: https://t.co/7zk6LPjpcL #AZTogether #TheArizonaWay #COVID19
Celebrate International Dance Day at home.
A “HOUSE” party is the only type of party we can have right now! So dance it out with your family or pets! pic.twitter.com/DS9WeFaHrT
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) April 29, 2020
First Things First reminds parents that tummy time helps baby’s physical development.
#Tummytime is important for a baby’s physical development, and it builds the foundation for bigger milestones to come. #AZFTF https://t.co/WtKq1rDyrd
— First Things First (@AZFTF) April 29, 2020
Phoenix Union High School District continues to highlight graduating seniors in social media posts like this.
SENIOR SHOUTOUT: We want to give a shoutout to Natalie Rivera from North HS! ✨🎉Natalie plans to enroll at @ASU to major in Criminology and Social Justice Studies. So proud of you Natalie! Want to be featured? Head over to https://t.co/fyxEh19hBU #AZClassof2020 #ThisIsWhoWeAre pic.twitter.com/55UKjcWw88
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) April 29, 2020
Tempe Elementary has cancelled its summer enrichment program.
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the 2020 Tempe Elementary Summer Enrichment Program has been cancelled. More info: https://t.co/EtWnA0Dqhw. pic.twitter.com/1assBk8dzL
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) April 29, 2020
A Phoenix 5- year-old leads an art class of stuffed animals at home.
5-year-old recreates art class with stuffed-animal students during lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic. https://t.co/rvzoACCeDO
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) April 29, 2020
Glendale Community College reminds students that tutoring services are free.
Did you know that Tutoring Across the College is FREE? From math, physics, and chemistry to music, art, and english, many different subjects are available! ⚗️🎨📖
— GCC (@gccaz) April 29, 2020
Check it out for yourself at https://t.co/2k5o7kwlU0.#GCCaz pic.twitter.com/eAHRoFCSfN
Coconino Community College commencement ceremonies go virtual.
Coconino Community College commencement & nurse pinning ceremonies are scheduled to go virtual.
— Coconino CC (@CoconinoCC) April 29, 2020
The CCC nurse pinning ceremony begins 5 p.m., Thurs., May 7, 2020 & the CCC commencement begins 2 p.m., Fri., May 15, 2020. Click this link for more details. https://t.co/BuTphYeXO6 pic.twitter.com/gzFFzRg78F
Grand Canyon University students find creative ways to celebrate graduation.
From @zoom_us and backyard ceremonies to a graduation dinner in an empty parking lot (to observe social distancing), @gcu‘s students found creative ways to celebrate their graduation while sheltering at home. https://t.co/XVkVQ3SPRz pic.twitter.com/j7SPiaFIrq
— GCU Today (@GCU_Today) April 28, 2020
Updated April 28
TGen researchers share what they’re learning about whether people who recover from COVID-19 become immune to it in this KJZZ 91.5 FM story.
A vital open question about COVID-19 is whether people who’ve recovered from the virus retain immunity and, if so, for how long.
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) April 28, 2020
Now, researchers at @TGen hope to help answer these questions with their new COVID Immunity Study.https://t.co/qvnJ2lqSdy
Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ said she believes the state is prepared to handle a second wave of COVID-19 cases.
.@AZDHS Director Dr. Cara Christ said she believes the state is well prepared to handle a second wave of the coronavirus. https://t.co/HFtvXBMdR6
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) April 28, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 6,948 from 6,716 yesterday, and 293 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
A formation of 15 military aircraft from Luke Air Base will salute Arizonans battling the coronavirus Friday afternoon with a high-powered flyover across metro Phoenix. https://t.co/E81rNaqaYf
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) April 28, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 3,578 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,188 in Pima County, 665 in Navajo County, 439 in Coconino County, 365 in Pinal County, 77 in Yavapai County, 380 in Apache County, 60 in Yuma County, 99 in Mohave County, 37 in Cochise County, 31 in Santa Cruz County, 9 in Graham County, 7 in La Paz County, 11 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

“The US now has 1 million confirmed cases of the coronavirus.” (via @USATODAY) https://t.co/nBFgRWDGqy
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) April 28, 2020
People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,557, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,736 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Hundreds of thousands in Arizona have filed for unemployment as #COVID19 stifles the economy. One family has been forced to live out of their car for the past two months. #12News pic.twitter.com/LitwtJ1kNn
— JOSH SANDERS (@JoshSandersTV) April 28, 2020
Get tested for COVID-19 during the Arizona Testing Blitz starting this Saturday, click on the link in the Tweet below for locations and details.
Testing will be available to anyone who thinks they have been exposed to and could be infected with #COVID19 and will be based on criteria set by each testing site. https://t.co/G1M4lHy31q #AzTestingBlitz pic.twitter.com/5VDfhywwL9
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) April 28, 2020
As you can see from this chart, confirmed COVID cases spiked sharply on April 20, one week after Easter and four days after the end of Passover.

Developing a vaccine against #COVID19 is among the first steps to a solution.
— Gates Foundation (@gatesfoundation) April 28, 2020
Distributing the vaccine safely, effectively, and equitably must be one of the next. https://t.co/afzxS1Bbt9
Forty-eight percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 13% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 19% Native American, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 1% Other/Non-Hispanic.
More men, 57%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 223 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.

People in assisted-living and long-term health care facilities had the most confirmed COVID-19 cases among congregate settings with prison/jails/detention centers ranking fourth in cases.

President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to keep meat and egg plants open.
President Trump plans to sign an executive order to ensure beef, pork, poultry and egg plants keep running, a source familiar with the plan tells NPR.
— NPR (@NPR) April 28, 2020
Meanwhile, unions are pushing for more protections for workers.https://t.co/5Riau6tYGB
Cities are seeking federal COVID-19 aid to help ease budget crises and avoid possible furloughs or layoffs.
Many cities are facing budget crises and are looking at layoffs and furloughs as a way to cope. With federal funding, @tbelshe said cities could invest in things like #infrastructure and #publicsafety. https://t.co/iBNesl96N4
— Arizona League (@AzCities) April 28, 2020
Gov. Doug Ducey provided a link to employment opportunities for unemployed hospitality workers.
Arizona hospitality employees who lost their jobs because of #COVID19 can access immediate employment opportunities here: https://t.co/l3iWT6MdIl#AZTogether @AZTourismNews @azcommerce
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 28, 2020
12 News’ Joe Dana thanked DES employees taking calls from out of work Arizonans for their service.
I’m going to acknowledge a different kind of front line worker who also deserves our applause: The DES employees handling phone calls from frustrated, traumatized Arizonans who are out-of-work and battling all kinds of bureaucratic obstacles. THANK YOU.#12News pic.twitter.com/GlCnTTlXwr
— JOE DANA (@JoeDanaReports) April 28, 2020
Parents are using the fallout from the COVID-19 epidemic to teach their children about personal finance.
With Arizona schools closed indefinitely, parents are looking for teachable moments. One subject that’s not taught in most schools is money and how to earn it, spend it, share it and save it.
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) April 28, 2020
Story via @cronkitenews: https://t.co/5BDEDyQVbe
ReadBetterBeBetter reminds people to get ready to celebrate Arizona Teachers on Tuesday, May 5.
Mark your calendars and celebrate with us on Tuesday, May 5! pic.twitter.com/mMXfY2QeUa
— ReadBetterBeBetter (@readbetteraz) April 28, 2020
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman thanked schools for doing all they can to provide learning and resources for students and families during school closures.
Our schools are doing everything possible to continue providing learning opportunities and critical resources to students and families amid school closures.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) April 28, 2020
Stories like this remind us why it’s so important to invest in our public schools at this time.https://t.co/HNdTSbgFQ8
KTAR 92.3 FM will recognize high school valedictorians and highlight their speech throughout May. Here’s what to do.
KTAR wants to recognize valley Valedictorians & provide them with a platform to showcase their speech throughout May! The speeches will be featured during The Mike Broomhead Show Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-noon on KTAR News 92.3 FM. Apply now, https://t.co/NcK0SJqT2V pic.twitter.com/ADrr4G8tCw
— azsba (@AzSBA) April 28, 2020
Scottsdale Unified School District thanked seniors for their ideas on alternate graduation acitivities and said they’ll get back with them on what will go forward after Gov. Ducey’s decision on the Stay at Home order that expires April 30.
We’re studying the results of the Student Advisory Board survey seeking feedback from the Class of 2020 on alternatives to graduation activities. No final decisions will be made until after Governor Ducey provides new guidance for the state of Arizona. pic.twitter.com/WZhzpNHwkG
— Scottsdale Unified School District (@ScottsdaleUSD) April 28, 2020
Dysart Unified is considering converting some schools into middle schools and is holding an online meeting about it tonight at 6:30 p.m.
Dysart is considering converting some schools into middle schools for the 2021-2022 school year. A Virtual Town Hall will be conducted tonight, April 28, at 6:30pm to share details about a possible timeline and process. For more information please visit https://t.co/y1vU1NMCdt pic.twitter.com/oSVeIdo7fr
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) April 28, 2020
Scouts from Cave Creek Unified School District are bringing mask making materials to neighbors and completes masks to healthcare workers.
Scouts from Troop 15 are helping our community by transporting materials to generous neighbors that use those materials to create masks for use by healthcare workers. Once completed, the Scouts will deliver masks for distribution to healthcare workers. https://t.co/UWwIih9zNS pic.twitter.com/wg7Yf5P2l4
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) April 28, 2020
Phoenix Union High School District is celebrating seniors with yearbook-style social media posts like this one.
SENIOR SHOUTOUT: We want to give a shoutout to Victor Hummer from Bioscience HS! ✨🎉Victor plans to take a gap year to work for an online writing service company. So proud of you Victor! Want to be featured? Head over to https://t.co/fyxEh19hBU #AZClassof2020 #ThisIsWhoWeAre pic.twitter.com/ILFsgUmCLd
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) April 28, 2020
High school juniors and seniors can access free, for-credit online courses through Embry Riddle University.
All Arizona & Florida high school juniors and seniors can access a slate of free, for-credit online courses through @EmbryRiddle. Courses cover aeronautics, aviation, meteorology, and more!
— Achieve60AZ (@Achieve60AZ) April 28, 2020
Humboldt Unified School District invited community members to watch a live Q & A with it’s two superintendent finalists at 1 p.m. today.
We invite the community to watch a live Q&A with our two Superintendent finalists today at 1pm. https://t.co/fjxoHmtUre
— Humboldt Schools (@Humboldtunified) April 28, 2020
Education Week says teachers jobs are at risk if federal assistance for schools doesn’t increase significantly.
Nearly 300,000 Teacher Jobs at Risk if Feds Don’t Step Up, Big Districts Warn https://t.co/EzjZ3wK4TP
— Politics K-12 (@PoliticsK12) April 28, 2020
WestEd provides some guidance about allowable uses of CARES act funds for local education agencies.
❓🍎 Wondering “what counts” as an allowable use of CARES Act funds? Or what LEAs maintenence of effort (MOE) entails or compensatory services for every #specialeducation student? See some answers to #FAQs #equity #schoolfinance #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/KFb2zbt1DJ
— WestEd (@WestEd) April 28, 2020
Learn a little more about school budgets from Peoria Unified’s Michelle Myers.
District finance is often a complicated topic to talk about, so we sat down with our Chief Financial Officer Michelle Myers to talk about school budget! https://t.co/fI9um38Nzx
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) April 28, 2020
Grand Canyon seniors are sharing their college-life wisdom with incoming freshmen in videos like this.
The abrupt end to the school year also limited the upper classes from sharing their wisdom with younger students. So our @GCU Students are stepping up to share with K-12 the tips they’ve learned and the things they wish they had known about both learning and life! #LopesTeachUp pic.twitter.com/AsJspqnaxK
— GCU K12 Educational Development (@GCUk12ed) April 28, 2020
Updated April 27
The Arizona Department of Health Services and healthcare partners statewide announced a plan Monday called the Arizona Testing Blitz to test 10,000 to 20,000 Arizonans for COVID-19 each Saturday for the next three weeks.
#UPDATE: We are joining forces with our healthcare partners to launch the Arizona Testing Blitz! Our goal is to increase #COVID19 testing across the state. https://t.co/3rzfCfLZyK #AzTestingBlitz #AzTogether pic.twitter.com/sLcjGCNzrN
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) April 27, 2020
People interested in being tested can find locations and pre-registration information on the AZDHS website at azhealth.gov/TestingBlitz.
This drive-through or onsite testing starts Saturday, May 2 at seven Banner Health and Walgreens locations statewide. There are five testing locations in the Phoenix area, and more sites and dates will be added so check back over time.
Testing will be available to anyone who thinks they have been exposed to and could be infected with COVID-19 and will be based on criteria set by each testing site.
“We know that rapidly identifying cases, conducting case follow-up, and performing contact tracing will help slow the transmission of COVID-19 in our communities,” said Dr. Cara Christ, director of the Arizona Department of Health Services in a press release.
BREAKING: The state of Arizona unveiled a plan Monday to test tens of thousands of residents for the coronavirus in the coming weeks, a big jump over the recent pace of COVID-19 diagnosis. https://t.co/4KO0qJWAfN
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) April 27, 2020
“Arizona has placed an emphasis on ramping up testing, but we need more,” said Gov. Doug Ducey in the press release.
“As our healthcare partners develop a more reliable supply of testing materials, we’re working together to take testing availability to the next level,” Gov. Ducey said. “The Arizona Testing Blitz is just one step of many that will expand access to testing for Arizonans and provide us with better data to develop Arizona specific solutions and re-energize our economy.”
Oxford University researchers prepare for COVID-19 vaccine trials, while other researchers identify cells that the virus targets in the human body.
Scientists at Oxford University are sprinting ahead with trials for their coronavirus vaccine, which has now shown a promising result in monkeys https://t.co/DwudsymWIA
— The New York Times (@nytimes) April 27, 2020
Research papers in the journals Cell and Nature Medicine have identified cells that act as major coronavirus infection sites — and the proteins that make them vulnerable.https://t.co/M6ez1UIlVb
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) April 27, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 6.716 from 6.526 yesterday, and 275 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services. No new COVID-19 deaths were reported Monday morning.
About 5,000 first responders will be given antibody testing to determine if they had been exposed to COVID-19. These will be the firefighters and police in Phoenix as well as surrounding cities.https://t.co/P62PMxQKNo
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) April 27, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 3,457 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,164 in Pima County, 628 in Navajo County, 425 in Coconino County, 359 in Pinal County, 77 in Yavapai County, 362 in Apache County, 53 in Yuma County, 96 in Mohave County, 36 in Cochise County, 30 in Santa Cruz County, 9 in Graham County, 7 in La Paz County, 11 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.

People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,477, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,657 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Banner Health opens new COVID-19 testing site at Arizona State Fairgrounds. https://t.co/BfYWS3iWYF
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) April 27, 2020

Forty-nine percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 12% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 20% Native American, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 1% Other/Non-Hispanic.

The Most Poignant Shortage: Selling Out of Sympathy Cards https://t.co/Zfd1pYXf85
— Kristin Rushowy (@krushowy) April 27, 2020
More men, 58%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 208 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Businesses should close break rooms. Restaurants should consider disposable menus and plates. Schools should have students eat lunch in their classrooms. https://t.co/fbEv9YmnIM
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) April 27, 2020
The second round of funding to help small businesses was approved last week, and the City of Phoenix provides resources to help small business owners apply.
April 27 #COVID19 Update THREAD:
— Mayor Kate Gallego (@MayorGallego) April 27, 2020
*️⃣New round of @SBAgov funding out today. AZ did not receive our fair share in the first round of funding. If you need to establish a banking connection there are lenders accepting new customers. Info: https://t.co/HCNE3q9Dvo pic.twitter.com/a9fIT9LlQT
IMPORTANT:
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 27, 2020
The Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act signed into law last week extends funding for #PPP. Small businesses should apply ASAP.
View the participating lenders in Arizona here: https://t.co/I3Gnluk5r0
Gov. Ducey thanked Turf Paradise over Jerry Sims for his donation to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund.
Thank you @turf_paradise owner Jerry Simms for the generous $1 MILLION donation to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund. This support to our medical professionals and communities in need will help AZ come out on the other side of #COVID19 stronger than ever. #AZTogether #TheArizonaWay pic.twitter.com/R98wOzLiHG
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 27, 2020
Some employees at a Tolleson meat-processor are concerned fellow workers have been sick.
#NEW more than a dozen employees from the JBS Beef plant in Tolleson are calling for improved working conditions. They are concerned about catching COVID-19 and believe several workers have been sick. They are calling for 2-week plant closure to prevent an outbreak @abc15 pic.twitter.com/siX3VTvKsV
— Mike Pelton (@MikePeltonABC15) April 27, 2020
Tyson Foods warns that food supply chains are vulnerable as meat processing plants close because of COVID-19.
Tyson Foods is warning that “millions of pounds of meat will disappear from the supply chain” as the coronavirus pandemic forces more food processing plants to close. https://t.co/an4EG1EJsn
— 12 News (@12News) April 27, 2020
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman said the state is helping prepare schools for safe re-openings in the Fall.
While we must wait to see how COVID19 continues to unfold in our state before we can predict what the fall semester will look like, we’re doing everything we can to prepare our schools for safe re-openings.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) April 27, 2020
Hear more in my Town Hall with @arizonapbs ⬇️https://t.co/03pBwFZudp
Curious about what some high school students are thinking about the end of their senior year? Read this.
Thank you to @AhwatukeeFN for showcasing some of the Horizon Honors’ Class of 2020 and their feelings about these unprecedented times, #eagleexcellencehttps://t.co/rvAupj0zA1
— Horizon Honors Schools (@horizonhonors) April 27, 2020
Meanwhile, education leaders fear that the losses in revenues caused by COVID-19 may lead to cuts in some of the education funding that has been partially restored recently.
“From 2008-2015, Arizona slashed more money for schools compared to any other state, dropping funding per student by about 36.6%. ” Education leaders fear COVID-19 will lead to new cuts, per @azcentral https://t.co/NEDgDLLz3k
— JOE DANA (@JoeDanaReports) April 27, 2020
Students are missing out on class time and many activities, but they’re learning some life lessons.
#EDUCATION: Yes, #kids are missing out on so much right now. But they’re also learning some pretty big #LifeLessons during #lockdown.https://t.co/oRC37Yb6vB#COVID19 #parents #learning #mentalhealth #Wellbeing pic.twitter.com/2M9qkVHSiH
— Education News (@educationblog) April 27, 2020
A 10-year-old Mesa girl sad she wouldn’t be able to go to museums started a neighborhood trend by displaying a drawing.
Little girl in Mesa sparks neighborhood inspiration through one drawing. https://t.co/Im93oo8UIO
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) April 27, 2020
ReadBetterBeBetter is sharing videos of staff reading their favorite stories in English and Spanish.
#ReadBetterBeBetter staff and volunteers are reading some of their favorite stories in English and Spanish. New videos are posted regularly so make sure to keep checking back. You can view Story Time by clicking here: https://t.co/Vgo1ZTOhce pic.twitter.com/tHnvyrM9xD
— ReadBetterBeBetter (@readbetteraz) April 27, 2020
Maricopa County School Supt. Steve Watson asks teachers to share what they’re doing to create meaningful learning for their students.
We want to celebrate #MaricopaCountyeducators. Share what your fellow teachers are doing to create meaningful learning connections with their students during this unique time of distance learning for a chance to win an Apple Watch! Details on our website. https://t.co/AiugY0xWjx pic.twitter.com/VEBxiqrwMv
— Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson (@mcschoolsup) April 27, 2020
Increased stress may lead to more abusive situations.
Stay-at-home orders, as well as school closures, may be causing increased stress in some families. Children and spouses in abusive situations may go unnoticed and unreported. Call 1-888-SOS-CHILD if you fear that a child is in danger. For more info, visit https://t.co/hxjMogos50. pic.twitter.com/vgyoXJqBzS
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) April 27, 2020
Dysart Unified thanked the owner of Saigon Kitchen for donating meals for Nutrition Services staff whoh ave been serving grab-and-go meals for students.
We would like to thank Mr. Dennis Tran, owner of Saigon Kitchen in Surprise, for his generous donation of 150 meals to our Nutrition Services staff, who have been working hard serving Grab-and-Go meals to our community. Thank you Mr. Tran and Saigon Kitchen! pic.twitter.com/zgZq3RtXAx
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) April 27, 2020
College students are facing challenges they haven’t before. Here’s what they’re doing to manage the stress.
Students are facing unique challenges right now, including stress about how to pay for college and future career and job prospects as internships are canceled and millions of workers file for unemployment benefits. https://t.co/qhJ3DbgH7B
— U.S. News (@usnews) April 27, 2020
Maricopa Community College has created a hub to help students access available resources.
We’ve created a hub filled with student and community resources! From housing and shelter to our student discount program, access everything in one place 👉 https://t.co/mKss91nf57 pic.twitter.com/cFb6Uz43d7
— Maricopa Community Colleges (@mcccd) April 27, 2020
Updated April 26
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose today to 6.526 from 6,280 yesterday, and 275 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 3,359 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 1,136 in Pima County, 625 in Navajo County, 420 in Coconino County, 342 in Pinal County, 76 in Yavapai County, 336 in Apache County, 51 in Yuma County, 88 in Mohave County, 36 in Cochise County, 30 in Santa Cruz County, 7 in Graham County, 7 in La Paz County, 11 in Gila County and 2 in Greenlee County.
People 20 to 44 years old had the largest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases at 2,411, followed by people 65 years and older with 1,613 cases, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Forty-nine percent of COVID-19 deaths were in White/Non-Hispanic people, 12% in people of unknown race/ethnicity, 20% Native American, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Black/Non-Hispanic and 1% Asian/ Pacific Islander and 1% Other/Non-Hispanic.
More men, 58%, than women, and more people 65 years old or older, 208 have died from COVID-19 in Arizona.