AZDHS amends COVID-19 school benchmarks

Click here for updates 11/1 and moving forward
Updated 10/30: The Arizona Department of Health Services has updated its guidance to schools so that they may return to distance learning from hybrid or in-person instruction if just one of the key metrics is in the red or substantial category.
Updated @azdhs guidance includes clarification that:
— AZ Department of Ed (@azedschools) October 30, 2020
✅ with the support of county health, schools may move to distance learning even if only one metric is in the red category
✅ schools are the final decision-making authority for selecting an instruction model pic.twitter.com/9qKY22LjC9
Arizona School Boards Association said it greatly appreciates the conversation and dialogue with partners at the state level, and especially the advocacy and concerns shared by all school board members, school leaders and education advocates during this time.
School leaders should continue to follow the plans carefully crafted by your district that you believe are the safest for your students and staff, ASBA said.
Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman said a communication breakdown between the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Arizona Department of Education “left the public confused and uninformed.”
The Arizona Department of Education did not request or recommend any changes to the @AZDHS school benchmarks.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) October 29, 2020
“Yesterday, the Department of Health Services made clarifications to help clear this up. The important part is that these benchmarks provide schools with data-driven metrics, while schools maintain the ultimate authority to make decisions that are best for their communities,” Hoffman and Dr. Cara Christ, director of AZDHS said in a joint statement released today.
Superintendent Hoffman and Dr. Cara Christ have issued a joint statement: pic.twitter.com/NGeG1Mf9yj
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 30, 2020
“Our goal is to move forward, together. It’s important for Arizona kids and families, and we look forward to continued collaboration during this pandemic and beyond.”
Updated 10/28: The Arizona Department of Health Services changed COVID-19 guidance for schools last week as cases substantially increased in the state, but few education advocates said they heard of the changes until this week.
A link to @ClaudiaRupcich full story on ADHS’ updated guidance for schools. https://t.co/Kanm5MpcQE
— Danielle Lerner (@DanielleLerner) October 28, 2020
On Wednesday afternoon, Arizona School Boards Association and Arizona School Administrators said in a statement, “This change was made without, to our knowledge, a concerted effort to communicate the reasoning for the change, or to understand the potential impact this change would have on district planning for the remainder of the year.”
Arizona School Administrators (ASA) is a professional organization representing 200+ districts across the state, and the Arizona School Boards Association (ASBA) is a voluntary membership organization composed of every school district in Arizona.
Both ASA and ASBA advocated for statewide benchmarks to guide school districts in determining the appropriate and safe learning environment for students and staff and applauded state leaders when these were released earlier this year. However, neither ASA or ASBA were included in discussions on the recent decision by AZDHS to change these recommendations regarding transitioning from hybrid to virtual instruction.
ASBA/ASA released the following statement in response to changes made late last week to the Arizona Department of Health Services recommendations for selecting a model to deliver instruction during the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic: https://t.co/exHKKrcTE1
— azsba (@AzSBA) October 28, 2020
Previously, AZDHS recommended schools move from in-person or hybrid learning to remote or online learning if just one benchmark moved into the substantial spread or red category for two weeks in their Safely Returning to In-Person Instruction.
Now, AZDHS says school districts should move from hybrid or in-person learning to remote or online learning if all three of the benchmarks – cases, percent positivity and COVID-like illness, are in the red or substantial spread stage for two weeks.

That means schools could provide hybrid and in-person learning for a longer amount of time while COVID-19 cases increase in the community.
The change is “misguided” because school leaders decisions may now rely on a “flimsy” indicator that hospitals don’t have to report – Covid-like illness, said Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association to The Arizona Republic.
NEW: “It is disingenuous to intentionally include a metric that you know is not going to go bad, because it’s a flimsy metric.” https://t.co/IJ2kCVmlQN (these revisions first reported by @NicoleSGrigg and @DanielleLerner)
— Lily Altavena🌵 (@lilyalta) October 28, 2020
AZDHS says their recommendations provide guidance for school districts, but school district leadership has the final say in decisions on what type of instruction they choose to offer their students and families whether they’re community is in minimal, moderate or substantial categories.
These recommendations may place more stress on school district leadership and school district governing boards on when to move from online to in-person learning and back depending on what’s going on in their schools and their communities.
TONIGHT AT 4PM: How school leaders feel about the ADHS guidance change.
— Danielle Lerner (@DanielleLerner) October 28, 2020
“There’s concern among our staff members and a lot of concerns around, this was kind of a quiet change and it wasn’t loudly advertised or explained and so it caught us by surprise,” -Sup. of @mpsaz
AZDHS Dr. Cara Christ said in a blog today that the changes were made to align the school recommendations in better alignment with the business recommendations on their dashboard, and made in response to concerns from partners in the Schools Reopening Workgroup about how a move back to virtual learning based on one benchmark would affect schools in smaller rural counties where a handful of cases could shift the percent positivity rate into the substantial category quickly.
The Schools Reopening Workgroup includes members from county health departments and the Arizona Department of Education. Read more about the workgroup in today’s blog. https://t.co/kfjjVT7fnx
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 28, 2020
ADHS has been working with the experts on the Schools Reopening Workgroup to revise the guidance, update documents, and discuss changes to the dashboard, to provide more stability in the recommendations. https://t.co/F5RxadG990
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 28, 2020
On Oct. 16, the AZDHS informed the Schools Reopening Workgroup about the implementation of the revised guidance starting Oct. 22, and last week, posted the changes on its Schools webpage.
Spoke with @azedschools last night and this morning regarding the change to the state’s guidance for school benchmarks.
— Danielle Lerner (@DanielleLerner) October 28, 2020
Here is their full statement: pic.twitter.com/RAbIXfXbCL
ASBA is not part of that workgroup.
“Arizona’s School districts made their plans for this school year based on guidance released by the Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS) in the summer,” ASA and ASBA said in a statement in response to the school benchmark changes.
That guidance outlined three conditions to monitor and identified certain thresholds as green, yellow, and red. It also stated that schools should start preparing for virtual learning if any one of the three benchmarks falls in the red category, indicating ‘substantial community spread’ of COVID-19.
“Administrators and school boards spent untold hours of planning and hours more of public meetings to develop these plans and get the 2020-2021 school year underway,” ASA and ASBA said.
The revised guidance recommends schools start preparing for virtual learning when all three benchmarks are in the red (substantial community spread) category. It states, “If a county has all three benchmarks in the red category, they should prepare to transition to virtual learning, and consult with their local health department.”
“Ultimately, local governing boards and administrators retain the authority to protect student health and safety. ASA and ASBA encourage school districts to adhere to their original plans regarding moving to virtual learning if they feel that would best protect students and staff,” ASBA and ASA said.
“Both organizations also strongly recommend that any changes or adjustments to these recommendations be thoroughly vetted with stakeholders and clearly communicated to schools with accompanying rationale before changes are made or implemented,” ASA and ASBA said.
On Monday, Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman released a summary of COVID-19 updates, guidance and news from the Arizona Department of Education.
This week’s COVID Digest is up! We recap the past week’s guidance, updates, and events from @azedschools ⬇️ https://t.co/11zfGzDpHt
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) October 26, 2020
Supt. Hoffman also spoke with ABC 15 Arizona’s Danielle Lerner about it.
As Arizona experiences a surge in #COVID19, @azedschools will continue to support schools while advocating for policies and resources to keep our teachers and students safe while learning this school year.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) October 27, 2020
Listen to my full interview with @DanielleLerner ⬇️ https://t.co/sOci86GkHm
Gov. Doug Ducey and Arizona Dept. of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ will hold a COVID-19 briefing Thursday at noon.
Gov. @dougducey and @AZDHS Director @drcarachrist will provide a #COVID19 briefing tomorrow (Thursday) at noon. They’re also expected to make an announcement about food bank partnerships for the holiday season.
— Maria Polletta🌵 (@mpolletta) October 28, 2020
Fountain Hills Unified School District this morning closed their high school and asked students to quarantine for the next 14 days after a person on campus tested positive for COVID-19.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 241,165 today from 240,122 yesterday, and 5,905 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 1,044 #COVID19 cases and 14 deaths are being added to the ADHS dashboard. Looking for a testing location? Information about testing sites, hours of operation, and details about pre-registration can be found on our site. https://t.co/GJoYyZZ57u pic.twitter.com/uXpPQbOjOJ
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 28, 2020
Todays AZ COVID-19 numbers graphic brought to you by @Ike_On_The_Mic. The most important number today is the 9% positivity rate, the highest in over 2 months @cronkitenews pic.twitter.com/sl7hB09KUb
— Sean Rice (@SeanRiceTV) October 28, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 155,951 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,962 in Pima County, 13,689 in Yuma County, 11,873 in Pinal County, 6,340 in Navajo County, 5,165 in Coconino County, 4,340 in Mohave County, 3,934 in Apache County, 3,004 in Santa Cruz County, 2,939 in Yavapai County, 2,150 in Cochise County, 1,914 in Gila County, 1,185 in Graham County, 618 in La Paz County and 101 in Greenlee County.
Watch this video for the latest #COVID19 information. ⬇️https://t.co/sQuoCFQF09
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 27, 2020
As COVID-19 cases rise across the United States, claims are circulating that case increases are (mostly or entirely) due to expanded testing, and do not indicate a spike in infections. The data does not support this conclusion. https://t.co/LiJMm85QnO
— The COVID Tracking Project (@COVID19Tracking) October 28, 2020
But cases aren’t the only metric we can use to measure outbreaks. As we’ve seen throughout the year, when COVID-19 cases go up, hospitalizations also rise. The number of patients currently hospitalized with COVID-19 is up 40% since October 1.
— The COVID Tracking Project (@COVID19Tracking) October 28, 2020
Interactive Graphic: (Hover over counties and boxes for more info)
Summary
New: With no federal aid in sight, schools are figuring out where they can cut, amid shelling out cash for PPE, technology.
— Rebecca Klein (@rklein90) October 28, 2020
“I cannot wait for federal funding to serve kids. The needs are immediate right now.”https://t.co/jdnDVjsZbM
Be Kind on the MOVE Mobile Classroom starts stopping by all Pendergast Schools today.
The BE KIND on the MOVE Mobile Classroom is on its inaugural tour (175 schools in 8 days!) and we are excited to have them stop by all of our Pendergast schools! Thanks so much to The Be Kind People Project! pic.twitter.com/rzx08qiy6f
— PESD92 (@PESD92) October 28, 2020
Teachers adapt to new ways of teaching with virtual instruction and more, says Tucson Values Teachers as they continue their work to ensure teachers are valued in the community.
Tucson Values Teachers adapting to education in a pandemic https://t.co/HMtpaFpgpA via @azbiz
— TucsonValuesTeachers (@Tweet4Teachers) October 28, 2020
Here are seven things all kids need in order for remote learning to be equitable, National Association of Elementary School Principals says.
7 Things All Kids Deserve in Remote Learning https://t.co/Af10DqRgri via @WeAreTeachers
— NAESP (@NAESP) October 28, 2020
Peoria Unified‘s Zuni Hills Elementary is holding a parade to honor a student as she begins some experimental treatment.
More than 750 Arizona teachers have resigned since the school year started and more than 320 of those said COVID-19 was the main reason they decided to leave the profession, The Arizona Republic reports.
From @lilyalta: 751 Arizona teachers have resigned or quit since the start of the school year. Of those, 326 cited COVID-19 as their primary reason for leaving.
— Paulina Pineda 🌵 (@paulinapineda22) October 28, 2020
Here’s what three former teachers said led to their decision.https://t.co/jcIKytyKv7 via @azcentral
Dysart Unified School District celebrates 100 years of educating students with 100 notable accomplishments.
Did you know this about school buses?
DID YOU KNOW…
— QCUSD Transportation (@QCUSDBusBarn) October 28, 2020
The official color of a school bus is “National School Bus Glossy Yellow” formally known as “National School Bus Chrome”. It is said to be the most visible during a school buses normal operating hours (at dawn and at dusk). #QCLeads pic.twitter.com/wobxep0emW
Today’s kindergarten students may feel the consequences of online learning for years to come, The Hechinger Report says.
Substituting online kindergarten for the critical first year of formal education will have consequences for decades. Kids living in poverty will be hurt the most. @lrmongeau‘s latest: https://t.co/Hscv2vm3mG pic.twitter.com/9TLvliWUzH
— The Hechinger Report (@hechingerreport) October 28, 2020
Here’s a glimpse of Deer Valley Unified’s Sonoran Foothills students and staff during their school day.
The @SF_PTSA Sonoran Foothills #Bobcats @DVUSD are having a great day at school today! #team #extraordinary pic.twitter.com/JhdGehGAs7
— Curt Finch, PhD (@DrFinchDVUSD) October 28, 2020
Looking for an engaging election lesson? Take a look at some iCivics Slide Decks.
To provide you with easy-to-use #Election2020 activities, we’ve converted some of our most engaging election lessons into customizable Slide Decks — ideal for @PearDeck or Google Classroom!
— iCivics (@icivics) October 28, 2020
Find three new Slide Decks at our Election HQ: https://t.co/KryicotrAe #RemoteLearning
College Success Arizona suggests voters look at candidates stances on education issues in this election.
#Education is an important issue in the upcoming election. With early voting opening and ballots being sent by mail, it’s important to research the candidates.
— CollegeSuccessAZ (@CollegeAZ) October 28, 2020
Here are where Trump and Biden stand on #student debt and #college costs. https://t.co/gaRdkkFjLt pic.twitter.com/S5PjGJOqFp
Arizona State University can help students prepare for the year’s number one career – data scientist.
The @SF_PTSA Sonoran Foothills #Bobcats @DVUSD are having a great day at school today! #team #extraordinary pic.twitter.com/JhdGehGAs7
— Curt Finch, PhD (@DrFinchDVUSD) October 28, 2020
Updated 10/27: The arts teach students that problems have more than one solution, Peoria Arts Education says.
Student access to the Arts in @PeoriaUnified11 supports research that the arts help to teach children that problems can have MORE than ONE solution and that questions can have more than one answer. Want to learn more about the District and the Arts? https://t.co/IKGaLegwc2 pic.twitter.com/rkl46ySi0P
— Peoria Arts Ed (@PeoriaArtsEd) October 27, 2020
Youth sports also help teach social, emotional and cognitive skills and well as build physical fitness, edutopia says.
We know sports provide an opportunity to build physical capabilities, but they are also a prime place to teach social, emotional and cognitive ones as well! (Filmed in February 2020) #HowLearningHappens pic.twitter.com/zJNRk1spUl
— edutopia (@edutopia) October 25, 2020
Today is the last day to return your ballot by mail, after today drop off your ballot at a voting location or ballot drop box, Maricopa County Recorder Adrian Fontes says.
Today, October 27, is the last recommended day to return your ballot by mail! After October 27, please drop off your ballot at a voting location or ballot drop box.📬📮🗳️🇺🇸 @MaricopaVote @maricopacounty pic.twitter.com/0ithpNQqpw
— Adrian Fontes, Maricopa County Recorder (@RecorderFontes) October 27, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 240,122 today from 238,964 yesterday, and 5,891 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Watch this video for the latest #COVID19 information. ⬇️https://t.co/sQuoCFQF09
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 27, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 155,458 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,703 in Pima County, 13,670 in Yuma County, 11,832 in Pinal County, 6,307 in Navajo County, 5,121 in Coconino County, 4,313 in Mohave County, 3,890 in Apache County, 2,995 in Santa Cruz County, 2,919 in Yavapai County, 2,125 in Cochise County, 1,907 in Gila County, 1,162 in Graham County, 616 in La Paz County and 103 in Greenlee County.
FREE #Covid19 saliva testing 10/26-11/1 throughout Arizona in partnership w/ @AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) October 26, 2020
-Use agency code SALIVATEST
-Ages 5+
-Drive-thru/walk-up avail depending on location
-Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
-Spit into a straw
-Results < 48hrs
Register: https://t.co/4K3lmgROUB pic.twitter.com/ogZfusVUez
A Yuma Elementary School District One special education teacher shares how her students have progressed with remote learning.
K-12 teachers register now to learn best practices, find resources and get tips to support your remote teaching at Remote K12: The connected teacher summit, Arizona State University’s Dr. Michael Crow says.
#K12 teachers: Need strategies, techniques and tools to help navigate #online & blended teaching? Don’t miss REMOTE K12 in Jan. 2021. Get best practices, resources and tips to support your success. Register now below.
— Michael Crow (@michaelcrow) October 27, 2020
Online and distance learning has led to changes in assessment practices in schools, National School Boards Association says.
Q6: #RemoteLearning forced districts to rethink how instructional time was used, often leading to changes in assessment practices. How might we rethink grading and assessment moving forward? #EdTransformation #innovation pic.twitter.com/pMkakvCGD8
— NSBA | School Boards (@NSBAPublicEd) October 27, 2020
Franklin at Brimhall Elementary‘s Rebecca Neal was named Arizona Health and Physical Education‘s Elementary PE Teacher of the Year.
Learn more about colleges, get 1-on-1 help filling out the FAFSA and college applications and learn more at Be a Leader Foundation‘s Taking Steps Towards College Success virtual event coming up soon.
Watch livestream broadcasts of Dysart School District events for free through Dysart Student Broadcasting Live.
Arizona Council on Economic Education says it’s never to early to teach personal finance.
Help your neighbors by taking part in Valley of the Sun United Way‘s virtual food drive from now until Nov. 6. More info below.
Donate cans of food ONLINE! It’s just like online shopping and gives back to your neighbors in our community. The drive ends November 6! Visit https://t.co/y2YRAC4yHi today. #endhunger #unitephx pic.twitter.com/NyEP30dP7T
— Valley of the Sun United Way (@myvsuw) October 27, 2020
Tolleson Elementary School District‘s Lina Munoz was featured on Promising Practices last week with Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson.
Updated 10/26: The Arizona Board of Education is meeting today and you can watch the meeting online. See below for more info.
One item for consideration (5A) is a rule to emphasize the importance of instruction on the Holocaust and other genocides. Three Holocaust survivors recorded videos in support of the rule.
— Az Board of Ed (@AzBoardEd) October 26, 2020
The Arizona Board of Education adopted a rule to emphasize the importance of instruction on the Holocaust and other genocides. Learn more about the effort in an earlier AZEdNews story “Holocaust education bill unanimously approved by House Education Committee.”
This is great example of what we can accomplish when we all work together! Grateful to the board for it’s unanimous adoption of this resolution. Big step forward for the state. https://t.co/JkM7xne8EA
— Rep. Aaron Lieberman (@aaron4az) October 26, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 238,964 today from 238,163 yesterday, and 5,875 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 801 #COVID19 cases and one death are being added to the ADHS dashboard. Please do your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask in public, physically distance, wash hands thoroughly, avoid large gatherings, and stay home when sick. https://t.co/mnKhqt2a8M pic.twitter.com/Wrf96QS4he
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 26, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 154,722 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,575 in Pima County, 13,646 in Yuma County, 11,743 in Pinal County, 6,307 in Navajo County, 5,090 in Coconino County, 4,272 in Mohave County, 3,885 in Apache County, 2,981 in Santa Cruz County, 2,893 in Yavapai County, 2,121 in Cochise County, 1,863 in Gila County, 1,151 in Graham County, 613 in La Paz County and 102 in Greenlee County.
FREE #Covid19 saliva testing 10/26-11/1 throughout Arizona in partnership w/ @AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) October 26, 2020
-Use agency code SALIVATEST
-Ages 5+
-Drive-thru/walk-up avail depending on location
-Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
-Spit into a straw
-Results < 48hrs
Register: https://t.co/4K3lmgROUB pic.twitter.com/ogZfusVUez
Everyone ages 6 months and older needs a #flu vaccine by Halloween. Help spread the word and protect yourself and your community – get vaccinated today! https://t.co/Fsqb1Dwhd7 #BooToTheFlu pic.twitter.com/CqFlLeUjm9
— HHS.gov (@HHSGov) October 26, 2020
Morenci Unified School District Supt. David Woodall sent this letter to students’ families after COVID-19 cases increased recently.
Chandler Unified School District congratulates Sara Wyffels, who teaches Spanish at Chandler High School, for being named Arizona Educational Foundation‘s 2021 Arizona Teacher of the Year. Click here to read more about it.
Peach Springs Unified School District Teacher Ms. Burgess helps first graders learn the difference between statements and questions in a fun way!
Tuba City Unified School District celebrates Red Ribbon Week with dress up days and activities to help students stay healthy and drug-free.
Florence Unified School District students took part in a Paint the Bus event on a decommissioned school bus on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Avondale Elementary School District staff and students support mental health awareness among teenagers.
Blue Ridge Unified School District reminds students’ families and community members that they can earn an Arizona Tax Credit of up to $400 by donating to any public school’s program of your choice.
Humboldt Unified School District reminds students and families there are still two more opportunities to attend the virtual college and career fair. See more info below.
Looking for financial aid to help with your after-high school plans? Then apply for the AZEdNews Scholarship sponsored by The Brand Agency. More info below.
Looking for money for #college or #TradeSchool? Apply for AZEdNews #Scholarships sponsored by @brandagencymkt & get help like these #students – https://t.co/3QYCwJRYA0 pic.twitter.com/hI6qGmcr4j
— AZ Education News (@azednews) October 26, 2020
Updated 10/23: Watch the Arizona Educational Foundation‘s 2021 Arizona Teacher of the Year Award.
There have been 30 COVID-19 outbreaks at schools in Maricopa County since the school year started, Cronkite News reports.
Since the start of the school year in August, Maricopa County has reported 30 outbreaks in schools, with 28 current active cases – but understanding the numbers requires parents to do a bit of hunting. https://t.co/XOwsQAGSCm
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) October 23, 2020
Sunnyside Unified School District welcomes students back to campus.
WELCOME BACK, JAGUARS!
— Sunnyside Unified School District (@sunnysideusd) October 23, 2020
Desert View High School SUSD students are back on campus and ready to learn! #SunnysideUnified #SunnysideRising pic.twitter.com/LFwW9aAyjv
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control now defines close contact as anyone within 6 feet of someone infected with COVID-19 for 15 minutes over the course of 24 hours and here’s what it means for schools, Education Week reports.
The CDC now defines a “close contact” of someone with COVID-19 as anyone who was within 6 feet of someone infected for a total of 15 minutes over the course of 24 hours.
— Education Week (@educationweek) October 22, 2020
Here’s what that could mean for schools. https://t.co/m5cTCYV5aQ
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 235,882 today from 234,906 yesterday, and 5,865 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Friday was the fourth consecutive day with at least 900 new cases reported.https://t.co/XOMnP3PoLZ @KTAR923
— Arizona’s Morning News on 92.3 (@AZMorningNews) October 23, 2020
With the data showing #COVID19 still circulating in our communities, ADHS remains on high alert. Read about our current strategies to limit the spread of infection. https://t.co/UIN2sr6IMM
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 22, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 152,695 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,297 in Pima County, 13,442 in Yuma County, 11,638 in Pinal County, 6,238 in Navajo County, 4,925 in Coconino County, 4,244 in Mohave County, 3,826 in Apache County, 2,968 in Santa Cruz County, 2,864 in Yavapai County, 2,098 in Cochise County, 1,830 in Gila County, 1,105 in Graham County, 611 in La Paz County and 100 in Greenlee County.
The format of ADHS County-Level School Benchmarks dashboard has been refreshed to be more consistent with the format of our Business Operations dashboard. Data on both dashboards is updated weekly on Thursdays. https://t.co/cQqYYeU8Cq pic.twitter.com/Q0TTbwAXTc
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 22, 2020
Take Action: @NAESP is pushing for a COVID relief package w/ $175 billion for #K12 so schools have resources they need to provide students w/ high-quality instruction and support their #SEL needs. Join us in demanding more #edfunding: https://t.co/cHsjSwVvi4 #ThankAPrincipal pic.twitter.com/62bRo6uqEm
— NAESP (@NAESP) October 23, 2020
Marcos de Niza High School shares what science classes looked like in 1984 and today.
Happy #Flashback50Friday 🎉 This week: Science! The 1st picture (1984) shows Jamel Chacko & Sherri Rotella in biology, & the 2nd (2008) is Ernest Hernandez & Terrence Lindsay in Chem-Physics. The 3rd picture (2020) is Angelina Alvarez conducting an ELISA test in Biotech 3-4!💛 pic.twitter.com/1T3USEmMzM
— Marcos de Niza HS (@mdnpadres) October 23, 2020
Today is the last day to request a mail-in ballot for the Nov. 3 elections, Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs says.
Today is the last day to request you ballot-by-mail for the 2020 General Election! You can submit your request by 5:00 p.m. TODAY at https://t.co/fUw8UPL6Yk. #TrustedInfo #Vote pic.twitter.com/gimjR9Qtr4
— Secretary Katie Hobbs (@SecretaryHobbs) October 23, 2020
Learn more about what Prop. 208 would do for schools before you vote, courtesy Cronkite News.
Confused about how to vote on Proposition 208? If passed, the measure would increase funding for teachers, support staff and education programs through a surtax on high earners. Find out more from @TylerManionTV and Emily Schmidt here: https://t.co/5t0hgjt02V
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) October 23, 2020
Mesa Public Schools shares resources for students and families to stay safe online.
It’s Digital Citizenship Week! Our Educational Technology Department has some incredible resources to help you and your family stay both cyber savvy and safe when browsing online. Learn more at https://t.co/VIZR9kwk3f pic.twitter.com/cukOBEoJqD
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) October 22, 2020
Find out how arts education can help students language learning from Education News.
#EDUCATION: How the #arts can aid a #students #LanguageLearning as they learn from homehttps://t.co/OBRZvmNDbs#Bilingual #language #DistanceLearning pic.twitter.com/Qk0PdtFeLg
— Education News (@educationblog) October 23, 2020
Peoria MET medical students gained insight from an Honor Health nurse on her career pathway.
Medical I & II students were able to gain some insight into the nursing profession from a @HonorHealth nurse who works on the orthopedic floor. So appreciate Brianna for taking the time to share her career pathway with MET students! #PeoriaMET pic.twitter.com/NK4oZ8sy9z
— #PeoriaMET (@PeoriaMET) October 22, 2020
The Graduate Wages Report shows the earning power of a college degree, the Arizona Board of Regents says.
5.8 percent for graduates with bachelor’s degrees and from 7.6 to 9.5 percent for individuals with a graduate degree over a 10-year period after graduation. Learn more: https://t.co/WFbbnLtax8 (2/2)
— Arizona Board of Regents (@AZRegents) October 23, 2020
Dysart Unified Supt. Quinn Kellis shares some highlights during School Bus Safety Week.
In this week’s edition of Super in 60 Seconds, I wanted to highlight School Bus Safety Week. Remember to be safe around school buses and thank your bus driver and aide for their #DysartExtraordinary work to keep students safe! #NSBSW #DysartSafe @DysartUSD pic.twitter.com/gLI3EHczli
— Quinn Kellis (@qrkellis) October 23, 2020
Teachers are being asked by schools to look for potential danger in the background of students taking classes online, Education Week reports.
Many school districts that are still providing classes online have asked teachers to be on the lookout in students’ backdrops for potential danger.
— Education Week (@educationweek) October 23, 2020
It can be a difficult call.https://t.co/FlF9ak8SKg
Avondale Elementary School District‘s Migrant Education Program received a donation from Kiwanis of Litchfield Park to buy holiday presents for students.
It’s beginning to look at lot like the holidays 🎁
— Avondale District (@AvondaleESD) October 23, 2020
AESD’s Migrant Education Program received a donation from Kiwanis of Litchfield Park to buy holiday presents for our students! Thank you💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/ObFcSsawXh
Arizona State University alumni Brandon Slade who has ADHD founded Stride, a learning system to combine mentorship and movement to help students reach their goals.
.@ASU alum Brandon Slade has ADHD and knows firsthand how hard it can be for students like him to learn.
— Arizona State University (@ASU) October 21, 2020
So he founded Stride, a learning system that combines mentorship and movement to harness “the gift of ADHD” and help kids reach their goals: https://t.co/eaavoTezWe pic.twitter.com/2LbVnKsYwn
Arizona Afterschool asks what’s been the most impactful topic for you as part of their School’s Out Make It Count campaign.
Make It Count Social Media Contest: Day 6! What has been the most impact topic for you? Think about what has motivated or inspired you. *Reply with your answer to be entered to win your prize.* Follow along for more challenges and prizes! #MakeItCountAZ #AfterschoolWorks pic.twitter.com/mwBKrSLv3u
— AZ Afterschool (@AZ_Afterschool) October 23, 2020
Updated 10/21: The University of Arizona led OSIRIS-REx mission made history with a five-second stop on the asteroid Bennu, Arizona Daily Star reports.
“It’s almost hard to process everything that’s happening right now,” said OSIRIS-REx principal investigator and UA professor Dante Lauretta over NASA’s live feed. “This is historic. This is amazing.”
The back-away burn is complete 🛑✅ I’m now moving to a safe distance away from Bennu. pic.twitter.com/bXk2ufSneS
— NASA’s OSIRIS-REx (@OSIRISREx) October 20, 2020
Thank you arts organizations for providing virtual field trips and performances for students during this COVID-19 pandemic, says Peoria Arts Education.
With many Museums & Theaters still closed or having limited access, @PeoriaUnified11 is excited for the outstanding work from local Arts organizations across the valley to provide virtual field trips & performances for our students! T-you @MIMphx, @childsplayaz & @BalletArizona pic.twitter.com/oDVebp1lUY
— Peoria Arts Ed (@PeoriaArtsEd) October 20, 2020
Learn more about college preparedness and scholarship opportunities at Mesa Public School‘s Facebook Live event today at 4 p.m.
Don’t forget to join us at https://t.co/oxGOxsJFT3 and https://t.co/NbXSZu9uIW today at 4 p.m. for our weekly Facebook Live event! District leadership will be discussing college preparedness and scholarship opportunities. See you there!
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) October 21, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 233,912 today from 232,937 yesterday, and 5,854 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 975 #COVID19 cases and 17 deaths are being added to the ADHS dashboard. Looking for a testing location? Information about COVID-19 testing sites, hours of operation, and details about pre-registration can be found on our site. https://t.co/OcmGncVlyJ pic.twitter.com/quqziTZ5x4
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 21, 2020
The Draft Arizona #COVID19 Vaccination Plan highlights AZ’s local allocator model, which designates county health departments and tribal health partners as the local authorities responsible for approving vaccine allocations to providers within each area. https://t.co/f0lDo0zdNM
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 21, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 151,527 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,128 in Pima County, 13,297 in Yuma County, 11,538 in Pinal County, 6,197 in Navajo County, 4,814 in Coconino County, 4,223 in Mohave County, 3,810 in Apache County, 2,961 in Santa Cruz County, 2,814 in Yavapai County, 2,075 in Cochise County, 1,777 in Gila County, 1,063 in Graham County, 606 in La Paz County and 82 in Greenlee County.
FREE Flu Shot Event today at
— Isaac School District (@isaacschools) October 21, 2020
1403 N 32nd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Pre-register at:https://t.co/UBUQwE8Jh6
___________
Evento GRATUITO de vacuna contra la gripe hoy
1403 N 32nd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Preinscríbase en:https://t.co/UBUQwE8Jh6 pic.twitter.com/5FhfRfwj6U
On average, #childcare providers have seen a 47% increase in operating costs coupled with a decrease in enrollment since the beginning of the pandemic. #AZFTFgov https://t.co/XyvcYYiERa
— First Things First (@AZFTF) October 21, 2020
Balsz School District offers free developmental screenings for children and the next one is Oct. 28. Find out more below.
#BalszSchoolDistrict offers free monthly #developmental screenings for children ages 2 years and 9 months to 5 years of age and our next one is on October 28th. If you have concerns about developmental in your child, we invite you to attend. Info below:https://t.co/GkQhlC8AM7 pic.twitter.com/apLWZkYx8I
— Balsz SD (@BalszSD) October 21, 2020
Avondale Elementary School District commends Avondale Middle School Principal Lillian Linn’s community building approach during National Principals Month.
Ms. Linn has created a supportive and welcoming panther community at AMS 🐾Through her “believe, achieve and elevate” motto, she has driven the school to provide educational opportunities inside and outside the classroom. We celebrate her today on #NationalPrincipalsMonth pic.twitter.com/11wnf5Ma7A
— Avondale District (@AvondaleESD) October 20, 2020
Celebrating students’ cultures can help students in and out of the classroom, edutopia says.
Celebrating culture and acknowledging roots is a crucial part of identity development—and doing so can help students both in and out of the classroom. (Filmed December 2019) @tacomaschools #HowLearningHappens pic.twitter.com/Ff4CWnNe30
— edutopia (@edutopia) October 20, 2020
Having my 3rd graders research their heritage is one of my favorite projects in the Fall. Their creativity never ceases to amaze me! @NatGeoEducation @pbsteachers @PBS @mpsaz pic.twitter.com/rl9Yo28cwL
— Lynsey Montgomery (@LynsMontgomery) October 21, 2020
Dysart School District congratulates to a West Point Elementary School student who was awarded third place in the 2020 Congressional Art Competition for District 8.
Congratulations to @WPTESWildcats student Destiny Banda who was awarded 3rd place in the 2020 Congressional Art Competition for the 8th District. Destiny was honored for her watercolor painting entitled “Colors of the Desert.” 🖇️https://t.co/aKpzTluPM0 #DysartArts pic.twitter.com/WQd8QHYNaS
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) October 21, 2020
Planning what you’ll do for Halloween? Here are some tips from the City of Phoenix.
The @CDCgov wants everyone to have a fun and safe #Halloween.
— City of Phoenix, AZ (@CityofPhoenixAZ) October 21, 2020
If you gather a small group of people for a costume party, they suggest keeping everyone socially-distanced to ensure safety.
More tips & advice:https://t.co/W5UABJYUbs#KeepitFun #KeepitSafe#PHX #MaskUpPHX pic.twitter.com/SKSc06M3rD
The City of Avondale has a drive-thru trick or treat event you might want to look into too.
Are you looking for some Halloween fun? pic.twitter.com/nVq5eHGpkR
— PESD92 (@PESD92) October 21, 2020
Here’s your chance to ask school principals about how they’re ensuring the safety of students and staff, courtesy the virtual Capitol Hill briefing.
Tomorrow, for our Capitol Hill Briefing, you will be able to ask questions directly of principals on the difficult decisions they are making to ensure the safety of their students and staff. https://t.co/Woo2wShPZM #ThankAPrincipal pic.twitter.com/PtsPFiRrsr
— NASSP (@NASSP) October 21, 2020
Register now for Be A Leader Foundation‘s Taking Steps Toward College Success Virtual Summit, Expect More Arizona recommends.
Join @BeALeaderFound for their virtual summit “Taking Steps Toward College Success” on November 13-15. It will include nationally recognized keynote speakers, engage sessions, a virtual resource fair, student-led empowerment sessions and more.
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) October 21, 2020
REGISTER: https://t.co/pZTtiva3HE pic.twitter.com/D1QLkiPA7B
Here’s why your vote for school board members is so important, says Friends of ASBA.
Why does your #vote matter in #school board elections? Your #local school board plays an impactful role in school safety. They set the direction for the district and work diligently to implement plans to keep students and staff safe. https://t.co/evpqhkBsxw #SafeSchoolsWeek pic.twitter.com/eBFTegzq1w
— Friends of ASBA (@friendsASBA) October 21, 2020
Teachers, did you know that Adobe is offering free Adobe Spark classroom accounts for all eligible K-12 teachers? Check it out!
Calling all teachers! @Adobe is offering *FREE* @AdobeSpark classroom accounts for eligible K-12 teachers. Help your students develop their creativity and storytelling skills via Adobe. 🎨
— Teach For America (@TeachForAmerica) October 21, 2020
Learn more: https://t.co/kv0rG5klix pic.twitter.com/XRmIKFLNZe
Updated 10/20: Schools across Arizona, like Rio Rico High School, adjusted their schedule today so students could take the ACT, a college readiness exam.
Wickenburg Unified School District welcomed students back to campus for in-person learning on Monday.
Glendale Elementary School District also welcomed students back to campus for in-person learning Monday.
Welcome back! pic.twitter.com/cySx9qxcsf
— Cindy Segotta Jones (@SegottaJones) October 19, 2020
The Arizona School Facilities Board has not done in-person inspections of schools since March 2020 when Arizona’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order began, and that has led districts to handle building ventilation upgrades related to COVID-19 on their own and in some cases with help from parents, The Arizona Republic reports.
As NYC took steps to inspect every school building for safe ventilation, Arizona building inspectors stayed home. And while children have returned to school, inspectors have not.
— Lily Altavena🌵 (@lilyalta) October 19, 2020
Some parents are taking ventilation into their own hands: https://t.co/gUiCU4Mi8B
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 232,937 today from 231,897 yesterday, and 5,837 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Today, 1,040 #COVID19 cases and seven deaths are being added to the ADHS dashboard. We all have a role in preventing the spread. Wearing a mask is one thing you can do to keep your family, co-workers, and community safe. https://t.co/pzpl6vXfMy #MaskUpAZ pic.twitter.com/e0sX4Y45VT
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) October 20, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 150,881 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 27,019 in Pima County, 13,284 in Yuma County, 11,476 in Pinal County, 6,149 in Navajo County, 4,789 in Coconino County, 4,211 in Mohave County, 3,798 in Apache County, 2,957 in Santa Cruz County, 2,798 in Yavapai County, 2,062 in Cochise County, 1,772 in Gila County, 1,053 in Graham County, 606 in La Paz County and 82 in Greenlee County.
FREE #Covid19 saliva testing this week throughout Arizona in partnership w/@AZDHS:
— Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University (@ASUBiodesign) October 19, 2020
✅ Use agency code SALIVATEST
✅ Ages 5+
✅ Drive-thru/walk-up avail depending on location
✅ Arrive on time w/QR code (no ID req)
✅ Spit into a straw
✅ Results < 48hrs
Register below.
Letter from @mpsaz to employees @ Mountain View HS yesterday says district confirmed FOUR students have tested positive with COVID19. One of the students was most recently on campus yesterday, 10/19.
— Danielle Lerner (@DanielleLerner) October 20, 2020
District dashboard shows 49 active cases, more than 50% in high schools.
JUST IN: I just got the first look at Arizona’s COVID-19 vaccination plan that was submitted to the CDC last week.
— Nicole Grigg (@NicoleSGrigg) October 20, 2020
This is the draft version.
DETAILS, FULL PLAN ATTACHED HERE:https://t.co/Ml229sr16Z#COVID19 #Covid_19 #ABC15
Learn more about the role county school superintendents play in education in Arizona from Expect More Arizona.
County school superintendents are elected every four years. Though their races are partisan, their jobs are not. Do you really understand what you’re voting for and what role they play in education in Arizona? #Vote4EdAZ
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) October 15, 2020
Learn more: https://t.co/EnRSomLS8h
Register now to take part in a free Zoom session on The Teen Brain, courtesy of Cave Creek Unified School District.
TONIGHT – OCTOBER 20, 2020 – 6:30-8pm for a FREE A.W.A.R.E. Parents Forum – The Teen Brain hosted by Sonoran Trails Middle School Counselor, Cadi Angeli. Please RSVP online to receive the zoom link:https://t.co/rO082eJaAQ pic.twitter.com/mxmVUEvu1T
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) October 20, 2020
Fashion students at East Valley Institute of Technology work on their skills.
#EVIT #Fashion first-year students were testing their patience and skill as they manually threaded a sewing machine. Second-year students were working on Curve Seams that they hand-stitched before machine stitching so that everything lines correctly. #EVITChangesLives #WeAreEVIT pic.twitter.com/nzN2AF37QV
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) October 19, 2020
Tolleson Elementary School celebrates Eva Longoria during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Today for Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate Eva Longoria for her advocacy to unlock the full potential of Latinas! Thank you, Eva, for funding culturally-relevant programs to enhance the productivity and earning power of our future Latina leaders! pic.twitter.com/8VNL1KeCmX
— Tolleson Elementary School District (@TollesonESD) October 15, 2020
Take a look at the National Center for Education Statistics‘ Data Point that examines the race and ethnicity of public school teachers in the United States by the race and ethnicity of the students they teach.
NEW DATA: During SY 2017–18, at #K12 public schools in which most students were Asian, 27% of #teachers were also Asian.
— NCES (@EdNCES) October 20, 2020
Check out our recently released #DataPoint for #EdStats on the race/ethnicity of teachers & their students: https://t.co/U7duxOjrYZ #EdChat pic.twitter.com/PyikdEu5f1
MET bioscience students work on PGLO lab activities.
MET bioscience students working on their @BioRad pGLO labs today, transforming bacteria with a gene that codes for green fluorescent protein. #PeoriaMET pic.twitter.com/exVz8YQRDt
— #PeoriaMET (@PeoriaMET) October 19, 2020
Here are some tips to include early math learning into your child’s play.
Incorporating early math learning into your child’s everyday routine will boost her math skills. Try these five ways from @NAEYC to build math into your child’s day: https://t.co/kIBABgoRtr pic.twitter.com/QstCqgf8VN
— Too Small to Fail (@2SmallToFail) October 19, 2020
University of Arizona President Dr. Rob Robbins said early childhood education prepares young children for entering school and their future careers.
.@UArizonaPres Robbins spoke of the importance of emphasizing and improving #earlychildhood #education to ensure students are prepared along their education and career journey. pic.twitter.com/ZTpb2XlxkM
— Helios Ed Foundation (@HeliosEdFnd) October 20, 2020
Sign up now for The Program for Infant/Toddler Care Virtual Trainer Institute that starts this month and is fully online, learn more thanks to WestEd.
🐣 The Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) 2020-21 Virtual Trainer Institute begins this October and is fully online! Sign up for this rich 22-wk #PL opportunity that supports #ECE professionals to supervise and train infant/toddler care teachers: https://t.co/3h9Lfv6XBP
— WestEd (@WestEd) October 20, 2020
Here are some facts about Peoria Unified School District‘s bond and override elections.
While our Peoria Unified employees cannot tell you how to vote, we can share facts and clarify misinformation. Check out the fact sheet and make yourself a well-informed voter. https://t.co/81ZLU9OZxn pic.twitter.com/7EKx0qeQYV
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) October 19, 2020
Goodwill of Southern Arizona celebrates their first graduate of their internship program.
Estevan (TPD Youth Collaborative member) is an inspiration! Last night we came together to support him & shower him with ❤. He is the 1st graduate of the @goodwillsouthaz – #GoodWillMetro Internship Program & he was hired on in the end. Great job! #TPDProud #ItTakesAVillage pic.twitter.com/YmbVnlW2yU
— Margo Susco TPD (@MargoSusco) October 19, 2020
Try some of these science activities while your kids are learning from home, courtesy of Education Next.
#EDUCATION: These fun #science activities can keep your #children entertained and #learning while #DistanceLearninghttps://t.co/EXG29MYh31#homeschooling #parenting pic.twitter.com/8l0OdTRspf
— Education News (@educationblog) October 20, 2020
Kayenta Unified School District shared these safe Halloween ideas for families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier coverage
Oct. 7 – Oct. 19: What are teachers doing ahead of elections to support students afterwards
Sept. 23- Oct. 6: 44 A+Schools of Excellence named today
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