How students engage with Inauguration Day

Click here for updates Jan. 21, 2021 and going forward
Updated Jan. 20, 2021: Students learning on campus today likely watched President Joe Biden’s inauguration in class and took part in civic lessons.
CNN’s Assistant Managing Editor of the National Culture, Trends & Enterprise team, Saeed Ahmed, shares 11 ways kids can still take part in inauguration day when they are learning from home.
For all of us parents figuring out how to make #InaugurationDay a learning opportunity. From @FaithMKarimi https://t.co/zGFy212w6x
— Saeed Ahmed (@saeed_ahmed) January 19, 2021
Dr. Jill Biden announced this morning that for the first time ever there will be a special live broadcast of the Inauguration made especially for students and families.
The day is finally here. I hope you’ll join me for a special live broadcast of the Inauguration made especially for students and families. Tune in now! https://t.co/VR6LAEZSyx
— Dr. Jill Biden (@DrBiden) January 20, 2021

Avondale Elementary School District is finding new ways to engage students and their families.
Name a better way to promote family engagement, movies and math while social distancing?!
— Avondale District (@AvondaleESD) January 20, 2021
Rocket Academy’s outdoor movie night was out of this world and just what we needed to start an amazing year💙 pic.twitter.com/MDJW7vrufM
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 690,544 today from 685,699 yesterday, and 11,528 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 428,624 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 92,519 in Pima County, 37,762 in Pinal County, 33,567 in Yuma County, 16,979 in Mohave County, 15,106 in Yavapai County, 13,624 in Navajo County, 14,224 in Coconino County, 9,750 in Cochise County, 8,727 in Apache County, 7,134 in Santa Cruz County, 5,474 in Gila County, 4,493 in Graham County, 2,066 in La Paz County and 495 in Greenlee County.
Interactive Graphic: (Hover over counties and boxes for more info)
Summary
To ensure no vaccine waste we offer it to +1s when possible. Each site decides based on a few key factors like: appointment no-shows, if the +1 is a caretaker or in a vulnerable group, etc. We can however only guarantee vaccine availability for patients with an appointment.
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 20, 2021
We are ready to welcome staff to our first of six employee COVID vaccination events. Today we’re at Westwood High, home of the Warriors. pic.twitter.com/rLX2RH9BXF
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) January 20, 2021
Free #Covid19 saliva testing for the public continues throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 11, 2021
– Agency code: SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru available depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN249yp pic.twitter.com/tRZEJcOjhu
Updated Jan. 19, 2021: The Arizona Legislature‘s House Education Committee passed HB 2015 today, which appropriates from the state general fund to the Arizona Department of Education amounts in fiscal years 2021 to 2023 to distribute in preschool development grants to eligible providers to replace federal monies no longer available to providers who participated in the grants program in fiscal years 2018 and 2019.
Access to early childhood education is a proven way to invest in the future of our state. I am thrilled that HB 2015, a proposal to fund pre-K programs passed the House Education Committee. Thank you @Sierra4AZ for championing this effort on behalf of AZ’s students and families.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) January 19, 2021
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Lorenzo Sierra, would appropriate $7.5 million in fiscal year 2021-22, $15 million in fiscal year 2022-23, and $22.5 million in fiscal year 2023-24.
Thank you @Supt_Hoffman! We move to the next step — the Appropriations Committee tomorrow. Thank you to all the experts who spoke up for us today. @courtneyracosta @azedschools @myvsuw @CAA_Arizona @LESD65 https://t.co/TdY3fAceka
— Rep. Lorenzo Sierra (@Sierra4AZ) January 19, 2021
To be eligible for the grants, providers must use an evidence‑based curriculum that has a clear scope and sequence and an explicit focus on coaching to assist teachers with curriculum implementation.
Starting on Jan. 1, 2023, the Arizona Department of Education shall evaluate the use of the preschool development grant monies by the eligible providers, including an analysis of child outcome gains associated with the preschool development grants.
We moved to AZ from Minnesota where high-quality preschool is widely available and affordable. It is one of the best investments a community can make. https://t.co/F13dIxHnJk
— Paula Feely (@paulafee123) January 20, 2021
In addition, the Arizona Department of Education shall submit a report on the evaluation on or before Jan. 31, 2024 to the Governor, the Speaker of the Arizona Legislatures’ House of Representatives, the President of the Arizona Senate and the Secretary of State.
The bill will be heard tomorrow in the House Appropriations Committee.
For more information on education bills going through the Arizona Legislature, please sign up here for Daily In-Session Updates from Arizona School Boards Association‘s Governmental Relations team.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 685,699 today from 679,282 yesterday, and 11,266 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
UPDATE: State Farm has >27k appointments still available for February, with Feb. 1-9 now fully booked. Nearly 107k appointments have been made there. The nearly 14k appointments at Phoenix Municipal Stadium are booked.
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 19, 2021
This video provides a helpful overview of the process to book a vaccine appointment through the vaccine portal. More information about the #COVID19 vaccine and a link to the portal can be found here: https://t.co/ifFe3br4Tk pic.twitter.com/n1dN2ZS3NO
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 20, 2021
More than 297,000 #COVID19 vaccine doses have been administered in Arizona, going to about 255,000 people, including 36,000-plus who’ve received both doses. Check out our daily report. pic.twitter.com/vRyoGcuvcA
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 19, 2021
In Maricopa County, there are 425,844 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 91,740 in Pima County, 37,135 in Pinal County, 33,447 in Yuma County, 16,899 in Mohave County, 14,989 in Yavapai County, 13,548 in Navajo County, 14,196 in Coconino County, 9,691 in Cochise County, 8,705 in Apache County, 7,104 in Santa Cruz County, 5,448 in Gila County, 4,417 in Graham County, 2,049 in La Paz County and 487 in Greenlee County.
Free #Covid19 saliva testing throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 18, 2021
– Use agency code SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru/walk-up avail depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN1MyGR #MaskUpAZ pic.twitter.com/e5bojqiwen
We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve partnered with @CITYOFMESA and @MesaFireDept to host six COVID-19 vaccination events for our employees Jan. 20-27. We are grateful to be able to extend this opportunity to our MPS family.
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) January 20, 2021
Arizona State University shares the Black Lives Matter digital resource guide they’ve developed focused on the Black Lives Matter movement, justice and equity, and the online collection includes of literature, podcast episodes, academic courses, police violence data, and archival information that is continuously updated, Cronkite News reports. Read more about it in the post below.
“It has helped us gather new materials, and it has made us take a look at all of our guides to make sure we’re inclusive in the contributions of people of color,” said Deborah Abston, a librarian at ASU. Read more on the resource guide focused on #BLM. https://t.co/yFbzD24M4a
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) January 19, 2021
The AIA winter high school sports season has started.
The AIA winter sports season has started and games are being played today. This one is San Luis vs. Hamilton at Chandler High School. The story tonight at 10 @abc15. pic.twitter.com/XUAu5llmM6
— Ashley Paredez (@AshleyOnABC15) January 20, 2021
Here are some ideas for kids to enjoy science at home and away from computer screens.
“Kids enjoy science, but they don’t always remember that science is all around them,” writes fifth-grade science teacher Pete Barnes. Young students can investigate sound, light, and other phenomena at home—while getting a break from screens.https://t.co/ZmfiHh3Jaf
— edutopia (@edutopia) January 19, 2021
A bill sponsored by Arizona House of Representatives Rep. John Fillmore would remove the requirement for children to be immunized to attend school.
Interesting. But considering that Arizona is one of a few states that allows personal exemptions (beyond medical and religious) hard to say whether this is a major change. https://t.co/M3H43XuRq5
— azcapmedia (@azcapmedia) January 20, 2021
Take a look at some ways these students celebrated their 100th day of school.
Our first graders showed off that they are 100 days smarter, and our 2nd graders dressed up like their 100 year old selves! #100Days #HeritageSTEAM pic.twitter.com/yuYifbhrzg
— Heritage STEAM Elementary (@HeritageSTEAMAz) January 19, 2021
Reflecting on your work with other teachers can help you both become better educators, reports edutopia.
Two heads really are better than one when it comes to building a reflective practice! Find out how partnering with a fellow educator can help you both become better teachers.https://t.co/sXyrp1M4wz
— edutopia (@edutopia) January 20, 2021
Maricopa County Schools Supt. Steve Watson handed out re-useable masks to students on their first day back at Deer Valley Unified School District’s Village Meadows School today.
Thank you @mcschoolsup for providing our students with extra masks at @Village_Meadows today during their first day back for in-person learning! #extraordinary https://t.co/F5vFCk1fRO
— Deer Valley Unified School District (@DVUSD) January 19, 2021
University of Arizona will lead a mission to buld a telescope that will help researchers view galaxy processes that have remained hidden from view until now.
The Aspera mission will study galaxy evolution with a space telescope barely larger than a mini fridge. The telescope will allow researchers to observe galaxy processes that have remained hidden from view until now. #BearDown 🔭🌌 https://t.co/43MtakzdIj
— Arizona Board of Regents (@AZRegents) January 19, 2021
Vail School District Pre-K through 8 students will return to hybrid instruction on Jan. 25.
Beginning Monday, Jan. 25th, all PreK-8 schools in the district, along with Vail Academy and High School, will return to the hybrid instruction model. All other high schools in the district will resume hybrid instruction on Monday, Feb. 8th. https://t.co/aYNHEdQEr4 pic.twitter.com/tO3IBAIXcJ
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) January 20, 2021
Is it time to consider removing metal detectors from schools?
Last week several members of Congress complained that going through metal detectors created chaos & lines, infringed on their liberties, & were a diversion of valuable resources. Yet, this is a reality some students face every day at school. https://t.co/1hgv6T79aO
— The Education Trust (@EdTrust) January 20, 2021
Teachers take time to apply for Desert Financial Credit Union‘s Adopt-a-Teacher program for classroom supplies.
There’s still time to apply for the Adopt-a-Teacher program! 5 teachers will receive a semester’s worth of supplies to make a real difference in their classrooms 👩🏫📝📚🍎 https://t.co/plmpN47WnT
— Desert Financial (@DesertFinancial) January 19, 2021
Make sure students know their role in influencing their elected leaders.
Citizens keep the government running!
— iCivics (@icivics) January 20, 2021
With this lesson, teach students how they can influence the government to act on issues they care about. https://t.co/q2NjspYw5V
Scottsdale Community College and South Mountain Community College are looking for students to join their esports team that play the following games.
@ScottsdaleCC is looking for 3 Overwatch Players, 3 League of Legends Players, 3 Rocket League Players
— Maricopa Colleges Esports League (@MCELEsports) January 19, 2021
Join our discord to sign up: https://t.co/fNyMQD1j7l
Updated Jan. 15, 2021: School districts around the state held events honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement today, and many like Tucson Unified School District are getting the word out about virtual and in-person events this weekend before the MLK Day Holiday on Monday, Jan. 18.
Some great virtual events to celebrate #MLKDay2021 hosted by IMA Community Action Team! https://t.co/qjPvLolsZi
— Tucson Unified (@tucsonunified) January 15, 2021
President-elect Joe Biden’s inaugural committee is also inviting Americans to take part in the National MLK Day of Service and a celebration that evening.
On Monday the 18th, join us for a celebration of the National MLK #DayOfService. After a day of Americans serving their communities, we’ll come together for an evening of music and inspiring speakers.https://t.co/xbwhvHrVMe
— Biden Inaugural Committee (@BidenInaugural) January 15, 2021
If you’re looking for in-person and virtual events and service opportunities to celebrate the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday and National Day of Service in the Metro Phoenix area, please click here and in the Twitter post below.
Join @HandsOnPHX‘s annual #DayOfService to begin moving us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved #community. Learn more about the variety of projects, resources, and events happening this weekend here: https://t.co/Fe1KxpDJUJ pic.twitter.com/mF38BtG8MH
— AZ Education News (@azednews) January 12, 2021
Community leaders across the Metro Phoenix area reflect on the impact of Dr. King’s ” I Have a Dream” speech and look to the future.
This #MLKDay, community leaders from across the Valley are reflecting on the impact of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. On Monday, Jan. 18 we’ll air “MLK: Celebrating the Legacy,” a look at the past, present + future: https://t.co/BslPP4o3Ci pic.twitter.com/dHcLeYj9qd
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) January 16, 2021
Looking for another way to celebrate culture and diversity? Several Metro Phoenix area cities and towns are encouraging residents to visit outdoor art works that celebrate diversity. They also have included information about nearby restaurants owned by people of color with carryout services. Click below for more info.
Happening now:
— City of Phoenix, AZ (@CityofPhoenixAZ) January 16, 2021
Residents from Valley cities can celebrate diversity & culture during the annual Regional Unity Walk.
While it’s still not safe to gather in large groups, the need for unity is greater than ever. Details: https://t.co/vMYCNNA69h#PHXNewsroom#PHX pic.twitter.com/AxOzD9uCc0
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 658,186 today from 649,040 yesterday, and 11,040 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today’s #COVID19 dashboard update adds 9,146 cases and 185 deaths. If you have symptoms, or if you could have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, consider getting tested. Visit https://t.co/LEcVWZHfNL for testing locations throughout the state.
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 15, 2021
ADHS will open a new vaccine site at Phoenix Municipal Stadium in partnership with @ASU and @AZNationalGuard on February 1. Registration for appointments at the new location will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 9 a.m. https://t.co/lsW7hYtNkA #RollUpYourSleeve pic.twitter.com/zk1ddc9bAp
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 15, 2021
In Maricopa County, there are 407,631 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 87,687 in Pima County, 36,122 in Pinal County, 32,349 in Yuma County, 16,397 in Mohave County, 14,398 in Yavapai County, 13,090 in Navajo County, 13,616 in Coconino County, 9,444 in Cochise County, 8,482 in Apache County, 6,950 in Santa Cruz County, 5,306 in Gila County, 4,276 in Graham County, 1,967 in La Paz County and 471 in Greenlee County.
The Arizona Department of Corrections announced new COVID-19 mitigation efforts on Friday, but it remains unclear when inmates in state prisons will be vaccinated. @JimmyJenkins reports. https://t.co/fPIWvIiniv
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) January 16, 2021
Exciting milestone! The number of #COVID19 vaccine doses administered in Arizona has passed 200,000 as the state and counties collaborate to get more and more vaccine into the arms of prioritized individuals. https://t.co/K9RorWUvaH #RollUpYourSleeve pic.twitter.com/3speeLboXf
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 14, 2021
We have big news! You’re invited to join us Monday, Jan. 25 at 10 a.m. PST / 11 a.m. AZ as we announce the naming of our film school for a groundbreaking industry icon. #asufilmschool pic.twitter.com/rPJ1IrGHWE
— Herberger Institute (@ASUHIDA) January 16, 2021
Teachers, take a look at these warm-up activities for middle school students to strengthen their understanding of prior grade topics, courtesy of Achieve the Core.
These Do Now Tasks are warm-up activities that can be used in middle-school classrooms to strengthen students’ understanding of the prior grade-level topics: https://t.co/U6q3YpGMhT #iteachmath #MTBoS #MiddleSchool pic.twitter.com/VGDXKvHxAV
— achievethecore.org (@achievethecore) January 16, 2021
Find out how Junior Achievement Arizona is reaching out to students whether they’re learning in-person or online.
Thanks to @PointB, our creative partner behind the JA My Big Idea! program, for this spotlight on how JA is evolving to reach students wherever they are learning. https://t.co/Yp5uWBQ6ZL pic.twitter.com/sAkBfAWSwr
— Junior Achievement (@JAArizona) January 16, 2021
See how school leaders can remove racial disparities in school discipline, courtesy of The Education Trust.
What can school & district leaders do to dismantle the racial disparities in #SchoolDiscipline? Look through our checklist with @nwlc‘s to find out. https://t.co/w7PnOYa9rB #SafeInclusiveSchools pic.twitter.com/7zKGhsLnWI
— The Education Trust (@EdTrust) January 16, 2021
Updated Jan. 14, 2021: School districts reassess their instruction models as more school staff and other Arizonans start to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.
Chandler Unified School District‘s Governing Board voted last night to return to in-person classes starting on Jan. 19, although public health metrics indicate substantial spread in the community. The board also added additional staff to provide virtual instruction for families who prefer that for their students.
Chandler Unified School Board votes to start in-person classes next week despite metrics. https://t.co/JT9pAUa5HT pic.twitter.com/8oKCkRQOUo
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) January 14, 2021
Peoria Unified School District‘s Governing board decided last night to continue in-person learning and discussed mitigation measures in place as well as more ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 including smaller class sizes and making it easier for families to switch between virtual and in-person learning.
Peoria school board doesn’t change course on in-person learning after teacher sick-out https://t.co/c5eptEmEsz
— azcentral (@azcentral) January 14, 2021
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 649,040 today from 641,729 yesterday, and 10,855 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
#UPDATE: Arizonans 65 & older will be able to register for #COVID19 vaccine starting at 9 a.m. on Jan. 19 in counties that are currently in prioritized Phase 1B. An estimated 750,000 more Arizonans are being prioritized thanks to updated guidance. Details: https://t.co/z0o9tiB4dE pic.twitter.com/fJUUok0Nu7
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 14, 2021
In Maricopa County, there are 401,855 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 86,345 in Pima County, 35,550 in Pinal County, 31,958 in Yuma County, 16,287 in Mohave County, 14,170 in Yavapai County, 12,942 in Navajo County, 13,420 in Coconino County, 9,380 in Cochise County, 8,410 in Apache County, 6,866 in Santa Cruz County, 5,217 in Gila County, 4,235 in Graham County, 1,935 in La Paz County and 468 in Greenlee County.
Free #Covid19 saliva testing for the public continues throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 11, 2021
– Agency code: SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru available depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN249yp pic.twitter.com/tRZEJcOjhu
Strong demand for #COVID19 vaccine has paved the way for a second state-run site at Phoenix Municipal Stadium starting Feb. 1. All January appointments at State Farm Stadium are booked, but more will be available Tuesday. https://t.co/q8J27YoxX9 pic.twitter.com/y6xQ6HJEEe
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 14, 2021
Queen Creek Unified students start their spelling bee today.
About to start the @qcusd spelling bee! Go bucs!!! #qcleads pic.twitter.com/4o0ZaGtuFS
— Newell Barney Bucs (@nbjhbucs) January 14, 2021
School policies can hurt children with mental health issues instead of helping them, Annie E. Casey Foundation says.
“Children with mental health issues are reported to child services for truancy charges more often than you would imagine… Rather than going in and being part of the solution, sometimes schools become part of the extra-stress problem.” https://t.co/IXLiJB7hKl
— Annie E. Casey Foundation (@AECFNews) January 14, 2021
Seven public district and charter schools are launching small learning communities that will receive Expansion & Innovation Fund grants, A for Arizona says.
The demand for free, accessible small learning communities has increased recently as parents are shifting toward individual and personalized learning models.
— A for Arizona (@AforArizona) January 14, 2021
Learn more about the awardees: https://t.co/dkn8dkz2E4#AforAZ #InnovationFund@dougducey @9thFloorAZ @iheartmyschool
Copper Canyon teacher Henderika TeNuyl received a Touchdown for Teachers grant, Tolleson Union High School District reports.
Copper Canyon’s Henderika TeNuyl, a CTE Teacher, received a grant from SRP and the Arizona Cardinals through their Touchdown for Teachers program. With the $500 award, she plans to buy a larger piece of equipment and supplies for the class to create school spirit merchandise. pic.twitter.com/5nKaCfSipg
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) January 14, 2021
A positive school culture is key to retaining great teachers, says Maricopa County School Supt. Steve Watson.
Retention of great teachers is crucial. A positive culture is a big part of that and will happen in a school either by design or by default. Here’s 5 tips for being an intentional school culture architect. Do you have any others? pic.twitter.com/I14Pgm8WFv
— Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson (@mcschoolsup) January 14, 2021
Liberty High School’s Choir Director visits elementary schools to meet future freshman and tell them about choir opportunities.
Mr. Shafer, director of choir at Liberty High School, visited Vistancia choirs to talk about scheduling choir for future freshman and get to know his Vistancia feeder students! Liberty High School #HeatPride #PeoriaUnifiedPride pic.twitter.com/0MAZvVg1zV
— Vistancia (@VistanciaHeat) January 13, 2021
Bridging the digital divide helps mitigate learning loss, National School Boards Association says.
A shortage of digital resources impedes low-income students from participating in online learning. Bridging the digital divide can help narrow opportunity gaps for these underserved students.https://t.co/aJYtuAKBtR
— NSBA | School Boards (@NSBAPublicEd) January 14, 2021
Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District No. 35 celebrates a Rio Rico High School senior who serves as a Gear Up mentor.
#SCV35AboveTheBar #hawkpride https://t.co/3OzRdX9p48
— SCV35Communications (@scv35_comm) January 14, 2021
Arizona State University‘s Dr. Carole Basile says COVID-19 has shows how the inequity caused by children’s social networks impacts their learning.
MLFTC’s Dean Carole Basile: #COVID19 has underscored many longstanding #educational inequities we knew about or should have known about. Among the most acute is the #inequity caused by the differences in social networks kids bring to the act of #learning. https://t.co/roi23wcKJm
— ASU Teachers College (@asueducation) January 14, 2021
Deer Valley Unified teachers examine ways to close the learning gap.
Overwhelmingly @DVUSD teachers believe that ALL students can learn at high levels. One important key is the work of collaborative teams- big work with the help of @SolutionTree and our own @dvusdplc Professional development on closing the gaps @ptseunis @DrFinchDVUSD @BCHS_DVUSD pic.twitter.com/UjaglstdQj
— Shana Baird (@azbaird) January 13, 2021
Glendale Elementary School District is thankful for students, teachers and staff showing their school spirit.
It’s #ThankfulThursday and we’re so grateful for our students, teachers, and school leaders showing their spirit! Way to go, Sunset Vista 4th-grade Courage Pack! https://t.co/quCOM9btZq
— Glendale Elementary School District (@GESD40) January 14, 2021
Updated Jan. 13, 2021: School districts are reassessing when they’ll return to in-person instruction as teachers, school staff and more Arizonans start receiving COVID-19 vaccinations.
Apache Junction Unified School District Governing Board voted 5-0 Tuesday night for schools to return to in-person learning on Monday, March 22, saying that by then many people may have received a COVID-19 vaccination.
Parents still will have the option of their children being taught online.
Apache Junction Governing Board president Dena Kimble cited the availability of COVID-19 vaccinations as a reason to return to the in-person learning model.
“Hopefully everybody will be vaccinated, the district should be ready, everybody should be ready,” Kimble said.
The Governing Board chose March 22 in part because that date will give teachers the next three weeks to be vaccinated, receive their second shot either 21 or 28 days later, dependent on whether they received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, and then two more weeks for the shots to be completely effective. AJUSD will then go on spring break March 8 through March 19.
“I think there’s a definite benefit to having a set date coming back,” board member Bobby Bauders said. “I don’t want students jumping back and forth between virtual and in person.”
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 641,729 today from 636,100 yesterday, and 10,673 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
We’re number 1 again today. pic.twitter.com/XV2PhdXCWA
— The AZ – abc15 – Data Guru (@Garrett_Archer) January 13, 2021
Arizona hospitals, funeral homes feeling strained as COVID-19 deaths continue to rise. #12News https://t.co/Wpq0UUMOgK
— JenWahl12News (@JenWahl12News) January 13, 2021
Dr. Cara Christ is discussing the 24/7 #COVID19 vaccination site at State Farm Stadium live on @FOX10Phoenix (7a), @azfamily (7:30a) and @KTAR923 (8:33a). pic.twitter.com/GZQYOSVWqS
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 13, 2021
Today’s #COVID19 dashboard update adds 5,629 cases and 191 deaths. If you have symptoms, or if you could have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, consider getting tested. Visit https://t.co/TAlZbnICKb for testing locations throughout the state. pic.twitter.com/1VY3RCboKA
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 13, 2021
In Maricopa County, there are 397,208 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 85,256 in Pima County, 35,041 in Pinal County, 31,789 in Yuma County, 16,080 in Mohave County, 13,962 in Yavapai County, 12,894 in Navajo County, 13,192 in Coconino County, 9,344 in Cochise County, 8,376 in Apache County, 6,807 in Santa Cruz County, 5,203 in Gila County, 4,202 in Graham County, 1,905 in La Paz County and 468 in Greenlee County.
Free #Covid19 saliva testing for the public continues throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 11, 2021
– Agency code: SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru available depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN249yp pic.twitter.com/tRZEJcOjhu
Arizona’s 24/7 vaccination site at @StateFarmStdm is processing about 200 people per hour, and the goal is to reach 6,000 per day.
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) January 13, 2021
More information from @AZDHS Director Dr. Christ ⤵️ @azfamily pic.twitter.com/pDsIXzzPPQ
The. U.S. Supreme Court may hear a case about school discipline and students’ off-campus speech in a case about a high school cheerleader removed from the team after posting profanities and an offensive image on SnapChat.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday agreed to decide whether a school district can punish students for off-campus speech. https://t.co/agsOx3AcNX #SCOTUS #FirstAmendment pic.twitter.com/WlLk1YBG86
— ABA Journal (@ABAJournal) January 12, 2021
Phoenix Union High School District Supt. Dr. Chad Gestson spoke today with teachers and certified staff about virtual learning, COVID-19 vaccinations and the district’s future.
This morning, #PXU Superintendent Dr. @chadgestson spoke to all certified staff. He touched on virtual learning, COVID-19 vaccination opportunities, and a bright and hopeful future for our District. ❤️#ThisIsWhoWeAre #PXUConnectED pic.twitter.com/zL7CZUbT8z
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) January 13, 2021
Learn more about training for high-demand information technology careers at Scottsdale Community College.
HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS: Cybersecurity, app development, software engineers, programmers, web designers — the options for a career in Information Technology are endless! 🧑🏽💻 Learn more about recession-proof careers here: https://t.co/iYJX1Fw6x4. #ScottsdaleCC pic.twitter.com/pM3mQMOD4B
— ScottsdaleCC (@ScottsdaleCC) January 13, 2021
Hassayampa Elementary and Vulture Peak Middle School students receive face masks from the Maricopa County Education Service Agency today.
Today we traveled to Wickenburg to pass out facemasks to the students and staff at Hassayampa Elementary and Vulture Peak Middle School. Proper PPE is an important component of the safety procedures we support to get students back to in-person learning. pic.twitter.com/6YZGfVE8FY
— Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson (@mcschoolsup) January 13, 2021
Hear more about how the teens at Teen Lifeline help other teens dealing with tough issues in this series on suicide by Cronkite News.
Relationship problems. Parental issues. Thoughts of suicide. These are the sorts of calls fielded by the Teen Lifeline, a peer-to-peer crisis call center in the Phoenix area . See the story by @JordanElderTV: https://t.co/BTYW9U93eu
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) January 13, 2021
East Valley Institute of Technology invites you to learn more about their 40 career training programs.
Enroll in one of more than forty #career training programs at #EVIT for the 2021-22 school year. Get started at https://t.co/u05JN4LFNE. #MesaAZ #Scottsdale #Gilbert #AZ #Tempe #AZEd #CareerTechEd #CTE #EVITChangesLives #WeAreEVIT pic.twitter.com/xf7ug2b1jX
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) January 11, 2021
University of Arizona starts its spring semester today with changes due to COVID-19, 12 News reports.
The University of Arizona will kick off its 2021 spring semester on Wednesday, but things will look a little different due to COVID-19. https://t.co/8BTDlTJFaN
— 12 News (@12News) January 13, 2021
Updated Jan. 12, 2021: The Arizona Interscholastic Association voted today to move forward with the start of winter sports on Jan. 18, after initially cancelling them last week.
JUST IN: The Arizona Interscholastic Association voted 5-4 Tuesday to reinstate the winter sports season.
— KVOA News 4 Tucson (@KVOA) January 12, 2021
https://t.co/TwMNUUTUTP
Winter sports has been reinstated by the AIA to begin week of Jan 18th. All players, coaches and officials must wear masks. #AZFamily pic.twitter.com/pNUAcwgiYQ
— Mark McClune (@MarkMcClune) January 12, 2021
Chandler district superintendent Camille Casteel gives the fifth yes vote to move forward to winter sports. That means 5-4 Executive Board votes for AIA sports to be back on starting Jan. 18. Wants the schools to have the option
— Richard Obert (@azc_obert) January 12, 2021
It’s back. AIA winter sports competition can begin Jan. 18. Masks mandatory. Jim Love was the swing vote, changing from no to yes this time.
— Richard Obert (@azc_obert) January 12, 2021
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 636,100 today from 627,541 yesterday, and 10,482 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
We are seeing another spike in COVID-19 ICU admittance. The metric increased 61 from 1,122 to 1,183 in two days. This happened last on 12/28 to 12/29 when it went from 1,007 to 1,076.
— The AZ – abc15 – Data Guru (@Garrett_Archer) January 12, 2021
A big thank you to the 1,600 health care workers, first responders, teachers, law enforcement officers, and Arizonans over age 75 who have been vaccinated at @StateFarmStdm! There are still appointments available: https://t.co/gybvjsqJWu #RollUpYourSleeve pic.twitter.com/77zt0HHhju
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 12, 2021
In Maricopa County, there are 393,732 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 84,426 in Pima County, 34,653 in Pinal County, 31,658 in Yuma County, 15,790 in Mohave County, 13,854 in Yavapai County, 12,854 in Navajo County, 13,089 in Coconino County, 9,232 in Cochise County, 8,355 in Apache County, 6,790 in Santa Cruz County, 5,147 in Gila County, 4,170 in Graham County, 1,885 in La Paz County and 464 in Greenlee County.
Free #Covid19 saliva testing for the public continues throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 11, 2021
– Agency code: SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru available depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN249yp pic.twitter.com/tRZEJcOjhu
Through Monday, 165,531 people in Arizona have received the #COVID19 vaccine. Visit https://t.co/rAV80ugbTX for more information on the COVID-19 #vaccine roll out in Arizona. pic.twitter.com/Sd95ZVCPBg
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 12, 2021
My number one priority is getting people vaccinated as quickly as we can to get our country back on track. pic.twitter.com/JLY1DntIlR
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) January 12, 2021
Watch live: FBI and Justice Department officials give an update this afternoon on charges related to last week’s riot at the U.S. Capitol.
— 12 News (@12News) January 12, 2021
https://t.co/SP9Sftn1xS
With tribal elders dying from COVID-19 a cultural crisis is developing, reports The New York Times.
“It’s like we’re having a cultural book-burning. We’re losing a historical record, encyclopedias. … We’ll never be able to get that back.” https://t.co/tJGTwwqWG9
— Rebekah Sanders 🌵 (@RebekahLSanders) January 12, 2021
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman says the “overall tone of the State of the State was disrespectful towards our teachers,” to KJZZ 91.5 FM.
“I think the overall tone of the State of the State was disrespectful towards our teachers,” says @kathyhoffman_az. @laurengilger speaks with her about Gov. Ducey’s statement on funding public schools. https://t.co/Dh1buvoYpZ
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) January 12, 2021
City of Mesa proclaims January 2021 at Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life month.
Click here for more info on Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life
Mesa is proud to proclaim January 2021 as Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life Month. In a time when our students are feeling the social & emotional impacts of the pandemic, it’s important to support them to both ask for help and recognize those in need of help. @SpeakStandSave pic.twitter.com/JoRRhvRNmZ
— Mayor John Giles (@MayorGiles) January 12, 2021
Tucson’s Audrey Jimenez returns to the mat Wednesday to compete against a top-ranked teen wrestler.
After nearly a year away from competition, Audrey Jimenez will return to the mat Wednesday night against one of the top-ranked teen wrestlers in the country. https://t.co/KXOQDFSWCN
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) January 12, 2021
This round of CARES Act funding for schools may be more inequitable than the last, Chalkbeat reports.
Critics of the aid formula worry that this round of funding will be even more inequitable than the last one. Here’s why. #EdChat #k12 #EduTwitter #education https://t.co/NIY3jLfuU1
— Chalkbeat (@Chalkbeat) January 12, 2021
It’s time to register students for Kindergarten for next school year, Tempe Elementary reminds families.
Reminder! Kindergarten registration begins this Thursday, January 14 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. at all elementary schools, including Laird, Meyer and Ward. Please visit https://t.co/i377Uq2bji for more information. pic.twitter.com/52iZb4dj3W
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) January 12, 2021
Updated Jan. 11, 2021: COVID-19 vaccinations started today for people in the 1B priority group, which includes teachers, K-12 school staff, childcare providers, law enforcement, protective services and people over 75 years old.
Dr. Christ vaccinates Emily Alexander, a fourth grade teacher in @pvschools. Teachers, law enforcement and those over 75 are now eligible to receive the vaccine in Maricopa County. #12News pic.twitter.com/1LdoSJqPxS
— Colleen Sikora (@ColleenSikora) January 11, 2021
Vaccinations are by appointment only, and links to register are at azdhs.gov and county public health websites.
Earlier today it was difficult to make appointments, but the websites are working better now.
If you do not have computer access to register for the COVID-19 vaccine or need extra help to register, Arizona Department of Health Services asks you to please call 1-844-542-8201.
If you need technical support with https://t.co/GXgJTzKRDV please call 602-542-1000. Those without computer access or those who need extra help to register should call 1-844-542-8201. pic.twitter.com/S7nlFM67Kq
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 11, 2021
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 627,541 today from 618,546 yesterday, and 10,147 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today’s #COVID19 dashboard update adds 8,995 cases and six deaths. #MaskUpAZ: Wear your mask over your nose and mouth, secure it under your chin, and make sure it fits snugly against the sides of your face. https://t.co/nBJgeUBXQq pic.twitter.com/7qkfDXj2oE
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 11, 2021
Free #Covid19 saliva testing for the public continues throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) January 11, 2021
– Agency code: SALIVATEST
– Results typically < 48hrs
– Ages 5+
– Drive-thru available depending on location
– Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
Register: https://t.co/ihRoN249yp pic.twitter.com/tRZEJcOjhu
In Maricopa County, there are 388,518 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 83,386 in Pima County, 33,638 in Pinal County, 31,501 in Yuma County, 15,595 in Mohave County, 13,724 in Yavapai County, 12,675 in Navajo County, 12,996 in Coconino County, 8,969 in Cochise County, 8,309 in Apache County, 6,716 in Santa Cruz County, 5,098 in Gila County, 4,071 in Graham County, 1,880 in La Paz County and 465 in Greenlee County.
Registration is open beginning at 9 a.m. for the state’s first 24/7 #COVID19 vaccination site at @StateFarmStdm in Glendale. Visit https://t.co/QvtJbwHd3Y for details. pic.twitter.com/CEbMVdkqP6
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) January 11, 2021
House Democrats have filed an article of impeachment charging President Trump with inciting an insurrection and will vote on the article on Wednesday: https://t.co/iD6NQf4uAH
— NPR Politics (@nprpolitics) January 12, 2021
Gov. Doug Ducey said in State of the State today that with health officials saying the safest place for students is in school, “we will not be funding empty seats or allowing schools to remain in a perpetual state of closure.”
Click here for State of the State coverage
@dougducey says he won’t fund “empty seats” as he pushes to put kids in classrooms. But an aide denies this is a bid to cut state dollars from districts that still have online or hybrid learning. And then there’s his defense of his handling of COVID…. https://t.co/zI7zeSRPDe
— azcapmedia (@azcapmedia) January 12, 2021
Ideas on how leaders can help kids and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, courtesy of the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
COVID-19 has presented tough challenges for the nation. Casey explores concerns for kids and families and offers recommendations that leaders at every level should take up immediately. https://t.co/YAwZUnUMc9 pic.twitter.com/lcVLh60qkT
— Annie E. Casey Fdn (@AECFNews) January 12, 2021
Arizona Interscholastic Association will meet after a backlash over their decision to cancel high school winter sports, The Arizona Republic reports.
AIA board will meet amid backlash over decision to cancel winter high school sports season https://t.co/049DFbN551
— azcentral (@azcentral) January 12, 2021
Eradicating inequities in early learning is essential to making progress towards racial equity, The Education Trust says.
“Making real progress toward racial equity requires comprehensive, transparent data systems that allow us to easily identify and eradicate inequities in early learning.” @CarrieECE https://t.co/E1q9kAsJDT #EarlyChildhood #ECE
— The Education Trust (@EdTrust) January 12, 2021
An Arizona State University student-produced documentary on the youth suicide epidemic airs tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. on most Arizona television stations.
The premiere of “Life Is…,” student-produced documentary from @Cronkite_ASU is tomorrow. Tune in to #Arizonapbs at 6:30 p.m. to learn about the youth suicide epidemic in Arizona + what can be done to stop it; details: https://t.co/evtwDKGIwl pic.twitter.com/Mlb8bXpcnW
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) January 12, 2021
Earlier coverage
Dec. 21, 2020 to Jan 8, 2021: Teachers help students deal with attacks on Congress, Capitol
Nov. 30 – Dec. 16: Watch it now: Dr. Christ asks people to avoid holiday gatherings with people they do not live with
Nov. 18 – 25: COVID-19 cases rise before Thanksgiving adding to school and hospital leaders’ concerns
Nov. 16: More schools return to online learning as COVID-19 cases rise
Oct. 20 to Oct. 30: AZDHS amends COVID-19 school benchmarks
Oct. 7 – Oct. 19: What are teachers doing ahead of elections to support students afterwards
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
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
May 26 – June 12: Increase in COVID-19 cases marks a new daily high
May 20 – 25: AZ Dept. of Ed releases COVID-19 guidance to schools for summer programs, back to school
May 11 – 19: Arizonans consider workplace safety, what back to school will look like amid COVID-19
April 26 – May 10: Stores re-open, COVID-19 testing blitz resumes on Saturday
April 8 – 25: You can get tested now if you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
March 12 – April 7: Coronavirus response: Cases rise; AZ Day of Giving