Video: Gov. says ‘Goal is to get children back to school when it’s safe’

Click here for updates from July 10 onward
Updated July 9: When asked if in-person classes at schools will start on Aug. 17, Gov. Doug Ducey said during his COVID-19 news conference today, “Our goal is to get children back to school when it’s safe.”
On Tuesday, more than 600 school board members sent a letter to Gov. Ducey, Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman, and the Arizona Legislature asking them to delay the start of in-person classes at Arizona schools until October 1st, according to an Arizona Republic article.
Gov. Ducey said he will work closely with Supt. Hoffman and continue to seek input from school leaders on that.
Phoenix Union announces full remote learning for the entire first quarter of the 20-21 school year. For more information, please watch Superintendent Dr. @chadgestson’s video. https://t.co/FYZPjH68HE
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) July 9, 2020
“I said last week (Aug. 17) it’s an aspirational date. I’m listening to superintendents and our decisions are informed by that,” Gov. Ducey said.
“The goal is to educate our children in the safest and most effective way possible, and I’m going to continue to work with superintendents and parents on that,” Gov. Ducey said.
AZ Dept. Of Health Services: COVID-19 News Conference July 9, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 112,671 today from 108,614 yesterday, and 2,038 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 73,165 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 10,835 in Pima County, 7,899 in Yuma County, 4,150 in Navajo County, 5,156 in Pinal County, 2,520 in Apache County, 2,338 in Coconino County, 2,095 in Santa Cruz County, 1,595 in Mohave County, 1,037 in Yavapai County, 905 in Cochise County, 384 in La Paz County, 385 in Gila County, 180 in Graham County and 27 in Greenlee County.

“We are seeing some stabilization, but we need to see a decline across the state,” Gov. Ducey said. “Although we have made some progress on this in the past seven days, there is no county in Arizona no matter how rural or how sparsely populated has been spared.”
“In Arizona, our rapid increase was in June. Let’s compare that to the nation,” Gov. Ducey said. “In the United States, we were seeing a decrease through May and through June, when Arizona was seeing it’s rapid increase. What you see for the country in July is a rapid spiking and increase of these cases.”
“Ir’s possible that Arizona was the front of that wave of increases in these cases, and the actions that we’re taking can lead the way for our state to navigate forward,” Gov. Ducey said.

Gov. Ducey says he hears the criticism and differing opinions on how Arizona has handled this virus.
Gov. Ducey said his decisions “will not be affected by politics in any way,” that “everything we will do going forward will be to promote and protect public health in Arizona.”
“I talked about protecting lives and protecting livelihoods, and when in doubt we will err on the side of protecting lives and proceed with caution,” Gov. Ducey said.
“Over the last two weeks, Arizona’s map looks a lot different than it did three weeks ago. So we are seeing better results, we need to see more but the actions that we took 10 days ago are making a difference. We need to increase this difference,” Gov. Ducey said.
Gov. Ducey said Dr. Deborah Birx told him that he needs to think about getting out of the zone the state is in right now as a two-to four-week event.
“There are continued sacrifices that are needed,” Gov. Ducey said.
“There really is nothing that you can do that will help more than staying at home,” Gov. Ducey said. “This idea of sacrificing is really a mindset.
“If you see it as helping other Arizonans, helping our state, helping our country, helping our health care workers, putting our kids in position where eventually they can return to school and that we can protect the maximum amount of people and protect the maximum amount of livelihoods, there is strength in numbers along with the informed actions we can take,” Gov. Ducey said.
The additional actions we’re going to take to slow the spread of COVID-19 are to reduce large group gatherings and places of higher risk, Gov. Ducey said.
Today there’s a new Executive Order to limit indoor dining to less than 50% of occupancy which is set by the fire code, Gov. Ducey said. The order was made with input from restaurant industry leaders, Gov. Ducey said.

“We are launching Project Catapult to dramatically increase testing in Arizona,” Gov. Ducey said.
Project Catapult has AZ Dept. of Health Services partnering with Sonora Quest Laboratories and Euroimmun/PerkinElmer to expand processing capabilities of COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Under this partnership, Sonora Quest expects to increase processing capacity to 35,000 diagnostic tests per day by the end of July, and up to 60,000 tests per day by the end of August.
In addition, the AZ Dept. of Health Services is partnering with Arizona State University to provide saliva-based COVID-19 testing to Arizonans. The first drive-through site will be offered on Saturday, July 11 in the West Valley.
Individuals need to pre-register for an appointment. Additional sites and available dates will be added over the next couple of months. Through this partnership, ADHS has committed up to $12.7 million to fund the expansion of testing sites to serve up to 100,000 Arizonans.
Working with these private sector partners will help expand testing this month and next month, Gov. Ducey said.
Also, Arizona is working in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and the Dept. of Health and Human Services to provide more testing, and the focus will be on Maryvale, and additional sites will be announced in upcoming days, Gov. Ducey said.
Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ said the new partnership will offer up to 5,000 free COVID-19 tests per day at sites in Maryvale and South Phoenix. The testing increase includes 12 days of surge testing, Dr. Christ said.

Gov. Ducey urged people to stay home and told them it will “benefit the State of Arizona and will help us navigate through this.”
Gov. Ducey asked everyone to wear a mask.
“There is no better way to lighten the load than to put on a mask and slow the spread of the virus,” Gov. Ducey said.
“We are all going to be living with this virus for the forseeable future,” Gov. Ducey said.
Updated July 8: Arizona Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman said the White House Summit on Safely Reopening America’s Schools “did not reflect the magnitude or severity of Arizona’s growing public health crisis” with a rise in COVID-19 cases.
“While young students may be at lower risk for infection, the educators who make learning possible – including instructional aides, librarians, bus drivers, nutrition workers and more – are at risk, as are students with medical conditions,” Supt. Hoffman said.
My response to today’s White House Summit on Safely Reopening America’s Schools: pic.twitter.com/phbuUxG8ar
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) July 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 108,614 today from 105,094 yesterday, and 1,963 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: Gov. Doug Ducey announced in a tweet that state officials are working with the federal government to increase testing in Maryvale and west Phoenix. https://t.co/Xopv0GTHGM
— 12 News (@12News) July 8, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 70,128 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 10,485 in Pima County, 7,775 in Yuma County, 4,089 in Navajo County, 4,959 in Pinal County, 2,499 in Apache County, 2,250 in Coconino County, 2,061 in Santa Cruz County, 1,509 in Mohave County, 1,016 in Yavapai County, 884 in Cochise County, 381 in La Paz County, 381 in Gila County, 179 in Graham County and 26 in Greenlee County.
“If I could see him one more time, I told him before they took him to the hospital, I love him, I love him so much I miss him.” https://t.co/HD3jnjmPCD
— 12 News (@12News) July 8, 2020

NEW: “Emergency room visits and hospitalizations reach new highs as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.” (via @alisteinbach) https://t.co/sraX6whGDk
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) July 8, 2020
Claims are within a few thousand of the highest since the pandemic began.https://t.co/gXiGvPOm3r
— AZPM (@azpublicmedia) July 8, 2020
“Innovation that would have taken years, has taken weeks.” See how MCCCD Nursing students, faculty, and staff successfully transitioned courses to remote and online learning environments during COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/FJeTWMlTcU
— Maricopa Community Colleges (@mcccd) July 8, 2020
Ballots for Maricopa County voters mail out today for the August 4 primary.
Happy early voting, Maricopa County voters! 📬🗳🎉 Ballots mail out today, July 8, for the August Primary! Track your ballot at https://t.co/tSp0Sc4Fnl. pic.twitter.com/PPrQnAzEI7
— Adrian Fontes, Maricopa County Recorder (@RecorderFontes) July 8, 2020
Reliable internet access is essential for Arizonas student sot succeed, the Greater Phoenix Chamber says.
Reliable internet access is essential for Arizona’s students to succeed.
— Greater Phoenix Chamber (@phxchamber) July 8, 2020
🌐 200,00 students don’t have access to reliable internet
Learn more > https://t.co/pJ9AB5k6wZ #ConnectAZStudents #EveryStudentConnected #tech4azstudents pic.twitter.com/47i2xKgldy
Expect More Arizona says the goal is to reopen schools in a way that maximizes safety learning and the well-being of children, staff and teachers.
“Our goal is to reopen schools in a way that maximizes safety, learning and the well-being of children, staff and teachers. Decisions on when and how to reopen need to consider a variety of factors—including the level of virus in the community.” https://t.co/xmotxrlLa1 https://t.co/yQDZlTMwcN
— ExpectMoreAZ (@ExpectMoreAZ) July 8, 2020
Parents of kindergartners talk about their concerns in this Education Week article.
“If my kid cries, are they going to hug him, or will they be hands off because we don’t touch kids now?” I wrote about the excruciating decisions facing kindy parents this fall: https://t.co/xdtX8gN2db pic.twitter.com/4PP0TFa8X0
— Christina Samuels (@casamuels) July 8, 2020
Raytheon’s Girls Who Code summer immersion program kicks off today.
Today we’re excited to kick off our @GirlsWhoCode Summer Immersion Program! Over the next few weeks, these rising technologists will experience a virtual opportunity to enhance their computer science skills, learn from RTX’s women in tech, & discover the power of what’s possible. pic.twitter.com/iilhNYqz0M
— Raytheon Technologies (@RaytheonTech) July 8, 2020
ON Semiconductor and Treasures4Teachers host STEAM-focused workshops for educators.
We’re proud to support our #teachers who are hosting 10 #STEAM focused workshops for teachers and other educators via our grant to @Treasures4Teach to promote #STEAMEducation #STEMEducation #STEMed https://t.co/Uro486KVoj
— ON Semiconductor (@onsemi) July 8, 2020
College student athletes face uncertainty, health risks and racial issues and they’re back on campus now, says a KJZZ 91.5 FM article.
Most college students have not returned to campus, but a lot of football and basketball players have.@kenshropshire talks to @offcentervoice about the uncertainty, the health risks and the racial issues facing student-athletes right now.https://t.co/H4bY2plkKp
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) July 8, 2020
Gov. Doug Ducey said today that Special Olympics Arizona, a nonprofit that provides services to individuals with intellectual disabilities, including physical activity and competition programs, health screenings and art programs will receive $250,000 from the Crisis Contingency and Safety Net Fund, which was established in March by Arizona’s bipartisan state budget agreement to continue to engage individuals in virtual programming during COVID-19 and ensure proper mitigation efforts when in-person activities resume.
We are very proud of all Special Olympics athletes throughout the state. These dollars and want to ensure they can continue to safely practice the sports they love and participate in other activities during #COVID19. @SOArizona https://t.co/gqPQC4rRZH
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) July 8, 2020
GateWay Community College provides information about the safe learning environments they’re creating for students.
GateWay has been preparing to create a safe learning environment for our students. In this video, learn about 5 different learning experiences you may have.
— GateWay CC (@gatewayaz) July 8, 2020
For more info, check out https://t.co/jM9Vpv4Atf
We’re ready for you to have a safe and successful Fall semester! pic.twitter.com/Wj9IwrVtUE
If you’re thinking about buying a computer for online learning, Northern Arizona University has these recommendations.
Check out some ITS computer recommendations to ensure your fall semester runs as smoothly as possible! 💻 pic.twitter.com/bAukamSGcM
— NAU ITS (@nauits) July 8, 2020
The Annie E. Casey Foundation released this statement on the work ahead to achieve thri goal for children in America.
We believe America should be a place where every child and individual have the freedom to belong, to live without the threat of fear and violence and to walk in the world with dignity and respect. Read our statement on the work ahead to achieve this goal. https://t.co/5uYEHBzNhq pic.twitter.com/NeC7UNMiay
— Annie E. Casey Fdn (@AECFNews) July 8, 2020
Hear why broadband internet access is so critically important to students’ learning during remote learning in this Higher Learning Advocates video.
Why is broadband access so important for #TodaysStudents? Makayla, who just finished her first year of college, had to park her car in Starbucks parking lots to complete her assignments after her college moved to online learning. Hear her story NOW! #ConnectCollegeStudens pic.twitter.com/2dFvUrSmLd
— Higher Learning Advocates (@HigherLearnADV) July 7, 2020
Furniture starts arriving for Deer Valley Unified’s Union Park School.
Some of the furniture has finally started to arrive @UnionParkSchool @DVUSD. Better late than never! #Toros pic.twitter.com/PezTCNQCFm
— Curt Finch, PhD (@DrFinchDVUSD) July 7, 2020
Updated July 7: Students and staff at Arizona schools will mask up and keep their social distance to prevent the spread of COVID-19 when in-person classes start again soon.
With COVID-19 cases spreading wildly in the community, the Amphitheater School District is joining TUSD and Sunnyside School District in launching online-only classes to start the school year. https://t.co/oJ0wQwRkC9
— Tucson Weekly (@tucsonweekly) July 7, 2020
Hear what two superintendents say is planned when classes start this Fall on Arizona Horizon at 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. tonight on Arizona PBS.
“From hybrid classrooms, to mask and social distancing requirements, Arizona public schools may look very different this fall. Hear from two valley superintendents, tonight at 5:30 and 10 P.M. on #AZHorizon.” pic.twitter.com/PArmmcPTIE
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) July 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 105,094 today from 101,441 yesterday, and 1,927 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: “Arizona has highest percentage of positive COVID-19 tests in the US. Here’s what it means.” (via @alisteinbach and @rachelleingang) https://t.co/25qaJM3way
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) July 7, 2020
The testing blitz will take place Saturday at Glendale Community College. It comes as the state continues to work to ramp up coronavirus testing. https://t.co/X20Qf9jTf6
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) July 7, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 67,543 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 10,184 in Pima County, 7,599 in Yuma County, 4,015 in Navajo County, 4,792 in Pinal County, 2,471 in Apache County, 2,237 in Coconino County, 2,048 in Santa Cruz County, 1,448 in Mohave County, 969 in Yavapai County, 855 in Cochise County, 374 in La Paz County, 361 in Gila County, 172 in Graham County and 26 in Greenlee County.
In Pima County, patients with COVID-19 are being sent to Phoenix, San Diego or Albuquerque for care.
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) July 8, 2020
But the county health director tells @laurengilger that this isn’t entirely new.https://t.co/PrT7eKqu07
#ItsAboutYourNeighbor pic.twitter.com/0qktHfYRUN
— Navajo County (@NavajoCountyAZ) July 7, 2020

Open letter from Arizona doctors to Gov @dougducey asking for strict enforcement of last week’s closures to curb #COVID19 outbreak. Appears more than 200 medical professionals have signed so far. pic.twitter.com/Bh3EexDpA5
— Maria Polletta🌵 (@mpolletta) July 7, 2020
Arizona charter and private schools were among recipients of emergency federal loans intended to help small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program.
Charter schools didn’t lose their state funding.
— Lily Altavena🌵 (@lilyalta) July 7, 2020
And I’ve heard from private school parents that they kept up tuition payments, too. Private schools also receive taxpayer funding through ESAs and the school tuition organization tax credit. https://t.co/ZGcOISXCef
States say the U.S. Dept. of Education is trying to divert pandemic relief funds to private schools from public schools, according to a NBC 12 News story.
The states argue that the Department of Education is trying to take pandemic relief funds away from public schools and divert the money to private schools. https://t.co/XWgSckqEmC
— 12 News (@12News) July 8, 2020
Did you know Arizona State University is one of only seven institutions in the U.S. to build interplanetary spacecraft? Find out why here.
Only 7 institutions in the United States can build interplanetary spacecraft — and @ASU is one of them. 🚀✨😈
— Arizona State University (@ASU) July 8, 2020
This is the story of how ASU became the place where NASA comes knocking. https://t.co/YTq2SVjfYv
Phoenix Union High School District’s Dr. Chad Gestson talks about their plan to launch a community-driven initiative on school safety that includes not renewing contracts for school resource officers on campus for the 2020-2021 school year and a participatory budget process for students, staff and parents for school safety initiatives to launch in the 2021-2022 school year.
For the full press release, please visit https://t.co/Tf7cIfFSLd
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) July 7, 2020
The right of minors to be represented by attorneys was established in 1967 by In re Gault, a case from Arizona’s Gila County, but 53 years later, children across the nation still aren’t automatically provided their right to legal counsel, a Cronkite News story says.
It has been 53 years since the Supreme Court’s landmark Gault ruling, and legal experts say the goal has failed: Children across the states still are being denied their right to legal counsel. https://t.co/lUJH6vTLua
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) July 8, 2020
Looking for ways to improve you math skills, these courses can help, a U.S. News article says.
Classes in these three nonmath subject areas can sharpen your ACT and SAT math skills. https://t.co/goHhPQr6Tg
— U.S. News Education (@USNewsEducation) July 7, 2020
Helping young children manage their feelings and emotions helps them as they grow, says First Things First Arizona.
Helping children understand and manage their #feelings and #emotions can support their success as they grow! These #tips from @AZFTF can provide guidance on helping your young ones deal with big feelings! https://t.co/ArgtSl0kWJ
— ASQ Tweets (@BrookesASQ) July 7, 2020
Scottsdale Unified’s Kiva Elementary School highlights its pre-K through 5th grad program including gifted education.
Kiva Elementary School offers rigorous academic programming to students in pre-kindergarten through 5th grade, including the Gifted Pre-K Academy and the Comprehensive Gifted Program. Visit https://t.co/cKTlYsT6uK to learn more. pic.twitter.com/FPwf4PfqhE
— Scottsdale Unified School District (@ScottsdaleUSD) July 7, 2020
Improving young students’ reading ability is achievable, says the American Association of School Administrators.
“Vastly improved reading outcomes are actually within reach, and that should motivate all of us,” writes @edukings about the science of reading in the #AASAmag July issue. https://t.co/SmzDppNHHH pic.twitter.com/Jez8scY4lt
— AASA (@AASAHQ) July 7, 2020
Strong parent communication from schools leads to greater parental engagement in educational activities, says Tucson Values Teachers.
New research from @nortonschool: When early childhood education centers communicate well with parents, those parents are more likely to engage in educational activities with their children at home.
— TucsonValuesTeachers (@Tweet4Teachers) July 7, 2020
Story from @alexislblue >> https://t.co/i7UUyIIXun
Read this to learn more about how culturally responsive teaching can boost students engagement and motivation.
Culturally Responsive Teaching in Early Childhood Education: Four ways to validate and affirm young students’ cultures in meaningful ways, which can boost their engagement and motivation. https://t.co/auuaye1DgC via @edutopia
— NAESP (@NAESP) July 7, 2020
Teachers as well as students are concerned about health and safety as schools re-open.
More than half of the 10,800 teachers surveyed @ExpectMoreAZ are concerned or very concerned about health and safety as schools reopen. https://t.co/AIxsWTXAq9
— Treasures 4 Teachers (@Treasures4Teach) July 7, 2020
Take a look at Tolleson Union High School District’s Copper Canyon graduation celebration.
Here’s a link to Copper Canyon’s Graduation Celebration. Go Aztec Nation!https://t.co/Yf7AzUR5Fl pic.twitter.com/MjfbYtS8zE
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) July 7, 2020
Updated July 6: Many schools are offering a hybrid option for students that combines in-person classes and online learning as students prepare to go back to school this year during COVID-19.
Hear what Dysart Unified School District is planning in response to parents’ and students’ preferences for the start of their school year Aug. 4.
As we look forward to the start of school on Aug 4, Dr. Kellis shares details about the various class options for this school year, as well as survey results and the rationale for beginning remotely on Aug 4. 👉 https://t.co/AB4FOGNxu6
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) July 7, 2020
Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman says additional federal money will help teachers and students this school year as they deal with COVID-19.
Additional federal dollars will be critical to the success of our teachers and students in the upcoming school year. Thank you @SenatorSinema for advocating that our schools receive the resources necessary to safely navigate Arizona’s rapidly-evolving public health crisis. https://t.co/npebj9pA4A
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) July 7, 2020
“The problem isn’t that policymakers—many of them parents too—don’t know what families are going through,” @juliettekayyem writes. “It’s that, fundamentally, the way public officials thought about the consequences of this crisis was flawed.” https://t.co/MP6ijUAICT
— Kathy Wiebke, NBCT (@kwiebke) July 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 101,441 today from 98,089 yesterday, and 1,810 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Arizona’s number of COVID-19 cases has doubled in the past two weeks to surge past 100,000 cases, according @AZDHS. It took from February to June 21 to reach 50,000 coronavirus cases; it has taken only about two weeks to double that number. https://t.co/tQKs35szat
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) July 6, 2020
Arizona’s first saliva test – designed by scientists at @ASU to make university-wide testing feasible in the fall – already has been administered to more than 6,000 people, according to Vel Murugan at @ASUBiodesign. https://t.co/ImYXz1AYCt
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) July 6, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 64,915 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 9,873 in Pima County, 7,431 in Yuma County, 3,904 in Navajo County, 4,600 in Pinal County, 2,441 in Apache County, 2,190 in Coconino County, 2,002 in Santa Cruz County, 1,413 in Mohave County, 948 in Yavapai County, 826 in Cochise County, 371 in La Paz County, 349 in Gila County, 152 in Graham County and 26 in Greenlee County.
Protect yourself. Protect others. #MaskUpAZ ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/NYweA1v6Q7
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) July 6, 2020
“We are still knee-deep in the first wave of this.”
— CNN (@CNN) July 7, 2020
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, said the status of the coronavirus pandemic in the US is “really not good” as new cases surge across the country. https://t.co/P9egdmQN5J

“Judge plans to decide Tuesday if gyms can be open.” (via @utilityreporter) https://t.co/oDmGOPNKMd
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) July 6, 2020
Budget writers are watching AHCCCS enrollment numbers.https://t.co/azgE9jxwtm
— AZPM (@azpublicmedia) July 7, 2020
Maricopa County is making significant changes at the polls to protect voters’ health.
Maricopa County is making significant changes at polls ahead of the August Primary and the General Election in November. https://t.co/s8HrOAKIKo
— 12 News (@12News) July 7, 2020
Black consumers are asked not to buy anything tomorrow to show the impact of their spending, learn more on Arizona Horizon at 5:30 and 10 p.m. tonight.
In order to bring attention to the impact of their dollars, Black consumers are being asked not to buy anything tomorrow. Learn more about the initiative tonight at 5:30 and 10 p.m. on Arizona Horizon. pic.twitter.com/s94m8Iwlmw
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) July 7, 2020
ICE told international students in the U.S. on students visas that if they are enrolled in online-only programs for the fall semester they must leave the country.
This is bad. ICE just told students here on student visas that if their school is going online-only this fall, the students must depart the United States and cannot remain through the fall semester. https://t.co/8DteVzexLB pic.twitter.com/OfkWRKFZZE
— Aaron Reichlin-Melnick (@ReichlinMelnick) July 6, 2020
Want to make a difference in the lives of students in your community? Consider serving on your local school board.
Nearly three dozen people have filed to serve on the governing boards of Tucson’s nine major school districts, making decisions on hiring and educational programs, as well as determining how budgets will be spent. https://t.co/2B5xwSkf8w
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) July 7, 2020
Updated July 3: See how an elementary school and activist are teaming up to fight water shortages in Arizona tonight at 5:30 and 10 p.m. on Arizona Horizon.
Access to water is always a concern when you live in the desert. Find out how a local activist and an elementary school are teaming up to fight water shortages in Arizona, tonight at 5:30 and 10 P.M. on #AZHorizon. pic.twitter.com/X9zsr2YiLw
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) July 3, 2020
Adult intensive care unit beds in use at Arizona hospitals rose to 91 percent yesterday, while confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 91,858 today from 87,425 yesterday, and 1,788 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Hospitals at record capacity for #COVID19 patients, preparing to possibly ration care based on age & underlying health condition. Let’s celebrate at home this #FourthofJuly. It’s patriotic to do what we can to protect each other from harm. 🇺🇸 #AZ https://t.co/YciQZCa5Ou
— Kelli Butler (@KelliButlerAZ) July 3, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 57,929 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 9,024 in Pima County, 6,824 in Yuma County, 3,817 in Navajo County, 4,139 in Pinal County, 2,418 in Apache County, 2,087 in Coconino County, 1,887 in Santa Cruz County, 1,342 in Mohave County, 861 in Yavapai County, 710 in Cochise County, 351 in La Paz County, 325 in Gila County, 125 in Graham County and 19 in Greenlee County.
These volunteers help get COVID-19 supplies like PPE, medication, testing kits and “whatever else is needed to Maricopa County hospitals.https://t.co/sErqHYY7BT
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 4, 2020

#MaskTip 😷: When you take off your mask, avoid touching your face. Store your mask in a clean container when not in use. #MaskUpAZ #COVID19 https://t.co/LGE1dmiREX pic.twitter.com/gQmL36iKT6
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) July 4, 2020
/1279202225298878464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>July 3, 2020JUST IN: At least 8 Secret Service agents stuck in Phoenix with coronavirus after Pence trip: https://t.co/qfudyzFIsI pic.twitter.com/iWMVkTE6aD
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) July 3, 2020
Almost 3 million American adults have moved in with their parents or grandparents during the pandemic. Perhaps it’s time for the country to revise its negative stereotypes about that living arrangement, @jpinsk writes. https://t.co/w5qKvYdtpU
— The Atlantic (@TheAtlantic) July 3, 2020
Before using fireworks, please listen to these tips from Tucson Fire Department Chief Chuck Ryan on how to stay safe.
Firework safety with #TFD Fire Chief Chuck Ryan! 💥 Before you use fireworks this holiday season, listen to these tips on how to stay safe and stay legal! From your Tucson Fire Department, have a safe and wonderful 4th of July 🇺🇸 🎇 pic.twitter.com/sTEHy4gvvn
— Tucson Fire Department (@TucsonFireDept) July 3, 2020
ASU Health hosts an interactive online camp for K-8 students to learn about health and nutrition, says Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman.
From July 7th-18th, @asuhealth will host an interactive online camp to learn about nutrition, physical activity, and healthy habits. The camp is open to all K-8 students.
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) July 2, 2020
Learn more and register: https://t.co/asYbJaZBYq pic.twitter.com/ksewEfZ9YT
The average teacher is while, 40 years old, has earned a bachelor’s degree, has 10 years experience and earns a $51,000 base salary, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
An @EdNCES snapshot of today’s teaching force: The average educator across all school types is white, 40 years old, holds a bachelor’s degree, has 10 years of experience, earns a $51,000 base salary, and leads a classroom of 21 students. https://t.co/gozmq6NHzg
— Fordham Institute (@educationgadfly) July 3, 2020
Find ways teachers can combat racism through lessons and discussions.
Discover how teachers can enact change and combat racism through purposeful discussions and literary curricula in this Aligned blog post. https://t.co/pA4I20ngWf #coreadvocates #teachervoice pic.twitter.com/jgcQ5u9u8I
— achievethecore.org (@achievethecore) July 3, 2020
Arizona activists share their favorite Martin Luther King Jr. quotes and how they apply to the fight to end racial injustice and police brutality in this Cronkite News article.
Arizona residents reprise their favorite MLK quotes – linking the protests of the past to today’s movement to end police brutality and systemic injustice in America. https://t.co/WhgE1fkG80
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) July 3, 2020
Should schools conduct lockdown drills? Here’s what some research from WestEd has to say.
95 percent of U.S. schools perform lockdown drills as part of their emergency response plans each year. But should #schools be conducting lockdowns drills at all? https://t.co/UGFwKz3UNR #education #edchat @PetrosinoJPRC
— WestEd (@WestEd) July 3, 2020
Updated July 2: Many people waited in line for hours today for free drive-up COVID-19 testing at South Mountain Community College before being turned away after testing supplies ran out after 2 p.m.
Free drive-up COVID-19 testing is being offered today at South Mountain Community College but Marsha Wood with Lab 24 said they ran out of supplies a little after 2 p.m., so volunteers started turning away dozens of cars that were still lined up along 24th St. pic.twitter.com/bAYe9HGMbw
— Audrey Jensen (@Audreyj101) July 2, 2020
Ricky Salazar, 32, and his mom, Gloria Salazar, 78, have been in line since 7:15am. Ricky is almost out of gas and him and his mom only have a few drinks of water left. They also haven’t eaten since they’ve been here, he said. He said he wishes this was planned better. @azcentral pic.twitter.com/AAxNwxCaiR
— Audrey Jensen (@Audreyj101) July 2, 2020
Lab 24 organizers Marsha Wood and Iman Ahmed said they will operate the testing site differently tomorrow to allow for more efficient test taking. They said people should come prepared with coolers with food and water. Lab 24 testing will continue tomorrow & July 9-10. @azcentral pic.twitter.com/T95xG7G739
— Audrey Jensen (@Audreyj101) July 2, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 87,425 today from 84,092 yesterday, and 1,757 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
National Park Service officials are urging boaters and and river guides to bypass Havasu Canyon to help protect the Havasupai tribe from coronavirus.https://t.co/3iSOIHXBkn
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) July 2, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 54,747 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 8,577 in Pima County, 6,663 in Yuma County, 3,744 in Navajo County, 3,908 in Pinal County, 2,405 in Apache County, 1,986 in Coconino County, 1,849 in Santa Cruz County, 1,248 in Mohave County, 814 in Yavapai County, 678 in Cochise County, 346 in La Paz County, 314 in Gila County, 117 in Graham County and 19 in Greenlee County.
From columnist @WritingMoore: It’s important to acknowledge that we’re making progress, but it’s even more important to acknowledge that we can’t be done.https://t.co/sDYTvTe7zL
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 2, 2020

THAT ESCALATED FAST Arizona Gov. @dougducey hit with federal lawsuit claiming he violated constitutional rights of Xponential Fitness, owner of Pure Barre, Club Pilates and CycleBar. Asks judge to block Ducey’s shutdown order & award damages. #12News pic.twitter.com/jUVjbgfp3k
— BrahmResnik (@brahmresnik) July 2, 2020
NEW: Varsity Tavern, a bar on Mill Avenue in Tempe, is under investigation and possibly facing revocation of its liquor license, according to a statement released by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. https://t.co/VPNSRl9osW
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 2, 2020
Had a productive meeting w/ Senate Pres. Fann & House Speaker Bowers to discuss #COVID19 updates and AZ’s latest mitigation efforts. I’m grateful for their thoughtful communication & dedicated partnership as we work to contain the virus & provide relief to Arizonans. @FannKfann pic.twitter.com/a4ScfrsieZ
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) July 2, 2020
School staff have expressed concern about returning to the classroom when the number of COVID-19 cases is so high, said Chris Kotterman in an Arizona Capitol Times article.
“We do know that we have a lot of #school staff who had expressed a lot of concern about coming back into the #classroom when the numbers are so high.” @mrkotter @AzSBA says of issues facing staff & students returning to school. https://t.co/jKK3IuPJ5P
— Friends of ASBA (@friendsASBA) July 2, 2020
Invest in Education filed its signatures today to be included on the General Election ballot in November.
It is OFFICIAL. 📃On July 2, 2020 Invest in Education filed a reported 33,258 sheets containing what purport to be 435,669 signatures for intiative petition I-31-2020. #InvestinEd #435669 #RedforEd #AZ pic.twitter.com/bEQ1xGYj6K
— AZ Education Assoc. 🍎🏫🎒📚✏️ (@ArizonaEA) July 2, 2020
This is absolutely incredible! I continue to be amazed at the resilience and commitment of Arizona’s teachers, parents, and community members for Arizona’s public schools. Bring November on! #INVESTinED https://t.co/gvkfGQrbrh
— Kathy Wiebke, NBCT (@kwiebke) July 2, 2020
Congrats to @investinedaz.and everyone who worked so hard to get this initiative on the ballot in the most challenging of circumstances. We all know the journey is just beginning but I’ll be here to support the effort 100% #REDforED #INVESTinED
— Sen. Martín Quezada (@SenQuezada29) July 2, 2020
See what WestEd’s Natalie Walrond had to say about the learning environment and relationships students need to be successful when school re-opens.
To watch: WestEd’s Natalie Walrond discusses how COVID-19 impacts students and how educators can ensure students return to safe and supportive learning environments. https://t.co/wiUonRjidx #SEL #education #edchat 📽️
— WestEd (@WestEd) July 2, 2020
Cave Creek Unified students will start school online on Aug. 5.
Superintendent’s Outdial, July 2, 2020: To see an update on this week’s developments following Governor Ducey’s June 29th Executive Order, visit CCUSD’s Website for the outdial and additional information. CCUSD students will start school online on August 5th. pic.twitter.com/ZcjrWvu480
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) July 2, 2020
Take a look at these seven takeaways from distance learning this spring.
7 Takeaways From Our Experiences With Distance Learning: By putting people first and remaining flexible, administrators may be in a position to handle whatever comes next year. https://t.co/cPQWvlxaAl via @edutopia
— NAESP (@NAESP) July 2, 2020
Arizona Dept. of Child Services will allow children in foster care to have virtual visits with their parents instead of in-person ones due to COVID-19, an Arizona Republic article says.
In response to spiking cases of COVID-19, the state’s child-welfare agency will allow children in foster care to have virtual visits with their parents rather than travel out of their foster home for an in-person visit.https://t.co/WCRCvpiK2U
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 2, 2020
Watch Arizona Horizon tonight at 5:30 and 10 p.m. for their annual roundup of the U.S. Supreme Court’s biggest decisions.
As a blockbuster Supreme Court term comes to an end, join us for our annual roundup of the Court’s biggest decisions. Tonight at 5:30 and 10 P.M. on #AZHorizon. pic.twitter.com/A5JCxPGN2y
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) July 2, 2020
See that Sierra Linda High School’s Graduation Celebration was like this year.
Here’s a link to Sierra Linda’s Graduation Celebration. Go Bulldogs!https://t.co/IX6dPaubvg pic.twitter.com/q1RrQzhb29
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) July 2, 2020
Mesa Public Schools students will start on Aug. 4 with remote learning.
Mesa Public Schools announced that schools will start August 4 with remote learning for all students until it is safe to return to in-person classes. https://t.co/Zwa1MwFcEh
— 12 News (@12News) July 2, 2020
Moving from high school to college can be difficult, but this program helps students, Northern Arizona University says.
The transition to college can be hard.
— NAU (@NAU) July 2, 2020
This program helps: https://t.co/N7NIpJYlVp.#TheNAUExperience pic.twitter.com/uA63BQYyJU
Updated July 1: Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 84,092 today from 79,215 yesterday, and 1,720 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
1,720 deaths, 84,092 cases in Arizona: Here’s what we know about the spread of coronavirus in the state https://t.co/nxp5RRbwSN
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 2, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 52,266 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 8,387 in Pima County, 6,485 in Yuma County, 3,703 in Navajo County, 3,777 in Pinal County, 2,381 in Apache County, 1,941 in Coconino County, 1,802 in Santa Cruz County, 1,142 in Mohave County, 771 in Yavapai County, 657 in Cochise County, 345 in La Paz County, 309 in Gila County, 108 in Graham County and 18 in Greenlee County.
PHOENIX — Vice President Mike Pence on Wednesday implored people in Arizona to wear masks and support business closures as the state reports record infections, deaths and emergency room visits. https://t.co/M0F7Usiy2h
— Arizona Daily Sun (@azds) July 2, 2020
Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force has called for more testing in Arizona, especially among people who are asymptomatic.https://t.co/EzuKk1J85j
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) July 2, 2020

An ordinance that would dramatically affect #Phoenix hotels was removed from the City Council agenda, but it could return. https://t.co/shhyQbVFN5
— PHX Business Journal (@phxbizjournal) July 2, 2020
See why an official says Arizona should wait for a two-week drop in confirmed COVID-19 cases before re-opening schools in this Arizona Daily Star article.
Official says Arizona should consider a sustained two-week drop in the coronavirus case load, which has yet to occur, in deciding when to open schools. https://t.co/yEJJL8ComT
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) July 2, 2020
Education Week offers advice from school districts on how to recruit and retain diverse teachers.
EdWeek explored efforts school districts are using to increase racial diversity in the teaching workforce, which experts say benefit school communities as a whole. Here are some ideas for how to do it. via Career Resources. https://t.co/dUXWGZ7WRF
— Education Week (@educationweek) July 2, 2020
When a woman and her father looked closer into her family history, they found things weren’t what they had been told for many years in this National Public Radio story. Find out more in this week’s episode of the Code Switch podcast produced with help from NPR’s story lab.
AEA President @AZ1Thomas sent a letter to @Supt_Hoffman to respectfully suggest that ESSER funding under the CARES Act could be utilized, if necessary, to address any budgetary concerns districts may have and ensure the continuity and timely receipt of pay for educators. pic.twitter.com/azqmeRGD3p
— AZ Education Assoc. 🍎🏫🎒📚✏️ (@ArizonaEA) July 2, 2020
Arizona Education Association President Joe Thomas says in a letter to Supt, of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman suggests that ESSER funding under the CARES Act could be used to address school districts’ budgetary concerns and ensure timely pay for teachers in response to Gov. Ducey’s Executive Order delaying the start of in-person classes to Aug. 17.
AEA President @AZ1Thomas sent a letter to @Supt_Hoffman to respectfully suggest that ESSER funding under the CARES Act could be utilized, if necessary, to address any budgetary concerns districts may have and ensure the continuity and timely receipt of pay for educators. pic.twitter.com/azqmeRGD3p
— AZ Education Assoc. 🍎🏫🎒📚✏️ (@ArizonaEA) July 2, 2020
Looking for something to do with your children this summer of quarantine? Take a look at this summer road trip themed guide with activities you can do at home from The Arizona Republic, USA TODAY and the Smithsonian Institution.
Parents: Download free road trip-themed activities guide from The Republic, Smithsonian https://t.co/fhtOjjJyQW
— azcentral (@azcentral) July 2, 2020
Updated June 30: Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 79,215 today from 74,533 yesterday, and 1,632 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Arizona coronavirus update: Big number of new cases because of reporting delay https://t.co/CxQM33mhPi
— azcentral (@azcentral) June 30, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 48,492 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 8,004 in Pima County, 6,212 in Yuma County, 3,625 in Navajo County, 3,574 in Pinal County, 2,337 in Apache County, 1,885 in Coconino County, 1,771 in Santa Cruz County, 1,071 in Mohave County, 781 in Yavapai County, 614 in Cochise County, 342 in La Paz County, 292 in Gila County, 96 in Graham County and 18 in Greenlee County.
I think we were all pretty shocked when Italy issued guidance on which patients hospitals should treat first when overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases.
— Jen Fifield (@JenAFifield) June 30, 2020
Arizona did that yesterday.https://t.co/raTMh8DThl

Nineteen Granite Mountain Hotshots died battling the Yarnell Hill Fire seven years ago today.
The Yavapai County Courthouse bells rang 19 times, starting at 4:42 this afternoon in honor of the 19 fallen Granite Mountain Hotshots. 7 years. July 30,2013 #GraniteMountainHotahots #PreacottAZ #CourierNews pic.twitter.com/Eq2sWeyxnf
— Cindy Barks (@Cindy_Barks) July 1, 2020
Arizonans traveling to New York and New Jersey list must quarantine for 14 days after their arrival.
More: https://t.co/54rXuBHCV8
— 12 News (@12News) June 30, 2020
Gov. Ducey, Arizona Dept. of Health Services Dr. Cara Christ and health and community leaders from around the state met with Dr. Deborah Birx to discuss Arizona’s efforts to contain COVID-19.
We were joined by Dr. Birx and health and community leaders from around the state to discuss continued efforts to contain the spread of #COVID19. Arizona’s focused on expanding testing and amplifying contact tracing, while pausing high-risk activities. 1/ pic.twitter.com/xT9l1lmysp
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) June 30, 2020
Goodwill of Southern Arizona is taking personal protective equipment and disinfecting supplies donations to help the Pima County Health Department.
If you’re looking for ways to support our healthcare workers, we’re still taking PPE donations for Pima County Health Depart. (@PCHD)😷💕
— Goodwill of Southern Arizona (@goodwillsouthaz) June 30, 2020
You can drop off PPE & disinfecting supplies at any of our open stores. https://t.co/x1nE9e7pPk#PPE #pima #covid19 #healthcare #dogood pic.twitter.com/WShj56tTpk
Valley View High School Graduate Kyra Horton encouraged her classmates in her graduation speech.
“These last four years have been about you. Your heart. And preparing them both for the beautiful future in store for all of you.” @VVHS_MONSOON Kyra Horton had some encouraging words for her fellow classmates. Full speech ➡️ https://t.co/u3Iwn5w1P3 #DysartGraduation2020 pic.twitter.com/eDRXQbxjPx
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) June 30, 2020
School leaders commented on Gov. Ducey’s Executive Order yesterday to delay the start of in-person classes until Aug. 17 due to the sharp increase in coronavirus cases in recent weeks.
Please read the letter from our Superintendent Dr. Aguilar-Lawlor on the reopening of our schools. Parent classes will be provided to help with the utilization of distance learning platforms. To read the letter in full go to: https://t.co/ttDjiHMJGA. pic.twitter.com/CtNxkgHLJK
— Cartwright District (@CartwrightSD) June 30, 2020
Today, @dougducey issued an Executive Order to delay the start of in-person classes until 08/17. We will present our initial #ReturnToSchool plan at the Governing Board Study Session at 9 a.m. on July 1. Following that, visit https://t.co/KGZkw24Axf for all official updates. pic.twitter.com/1d4kpQ7Ikk
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) June 30, 2020
Click here for more on pausing re-opening and delay in in-person classes for students
“Having some time to see how things continue to unfold with the #pandemic and public health-wise is a good thing, so we appreciate him essentially buying us some time,” said @mrkotter of @AzSBA when asked about @dougducey‘s latest Executive order. https://t.co/3tXTGTUP5q
— Friends of ASBA (@friendsASBA) June 30, 2020
BREAKING @LifetimeFitnes1 will defy Arizona Gov. @dougducey‘s shutdown order & reopen entires facilities on Wednesday. Mountainside Fitness is ignoring it & has threatened to sue governor. #12News pic.twitter.com/cdHLyFMumJ
— BrahmResnik (@brahmresnik) June 30, 2020
This game is a big esports hit in Arizona schools.
.@riotgames new game @PlayVALORANT, has similarities of two popular games. It could be the next big game to come the competitive scene. @Connor_VL has the story.https://t.co/6kCnFYIW0V
— Cronkite News: Phoenix Sports (@sportscronkite) June 30, 2020
Federal aid to states, cities and towns to support public schools increased costs dealing with COVID-19 is crucial says the National School Boards Association.
The fall semester will be here sooner than we think. Students across the country will be navigating their education in the middle of a pandemic, so urgent federal aid to our states, cities and towns to support our public schools is crucial. #FundPublicSchools #FundtheFrontLines
— NSBA | School Boards (@NSBAPublicEd) June 30, 2020
It will cost the average school district in $1.8 million in COVID-related costs to re-open, a new survey says.
A recent @AASAhq @ASBOIntl analysis found that it will cost the average school district $1.8m in COVID-related costs to reopen #COVIDcosts #FundEducation #FundPublicSchoolshttps://t.co/WdI1bwcf3f
— NAFIS (@NAFISschools) June 30, 2020
Looking for something for your middle schoolers this summer? How about this.
The Formation of the Grand Canyon
— NAU (@NAU) June 30, 2020
Virtual summer camp for middle & high school students
Start exploring with us: https://t.co/IoqPJvYgJu. pic.twitter.com/k3Y0aribWF
If you’re looking for statistics to help understand how COVID-19 is impacting students learning, take a look at this at the National Center for Education Statistics.
Looking for #EdStats and other resources to help you understand how #COVID19 is impacting American education?
— NCES (@EdNCES) June 30, 2020
The new COVID-19 Information and Resources page uses NCES #EdData to answer your questions: https://t.co/sx2Kb8PeT3 pic.twitter.com/Tq0g4UA87q
The U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling today in Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue said that a Montana prohibition on families using state tax-credit scholarships for religious schools was an unconstitutional violation of religious freedom, according to an Education Week article.
Espi-what?! An explanation of today’s big Supreme Court decision on education and what might come next. https://t.co/MrNeEEVYR3
— Evie Blad (@EvieBlad) June 30, 2020
Creative projects can help students engage more with historical events, Edutopia says.
Creative projects like podcasts can encourage students to engage more deeply with historical events.https://t.co/uvtEJWORl2
— edutopia (@edutopia) June 30, 2020
Teaching about the Civil Rights movement? Consider these lesson plans from iCivics as a starting point.
Teach about the below Supreme Court cases and their impact on the Civil Rights Movement with this lesson plan: https://t.co/3tGks2B6aw
— iCivics (@icivics) June 30, 2020
Brown v. Board of Education
Loving v. Virginia
Bailey v. Patterson
Heart of Atlanta v. US pic.twitter.com/Rnv3gB5F7P
NEW: Phoenix police preparing to submit Dion Johnson case to Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for review https://t.co/xVV3qxaPMq pic.twitter.com/VlmkjacGDJ
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) June 30, 2020
Marching in the streets. Registering their peers to vote. Talking to other youth about elections. Working on campaigns. On major indicators of civic and political engagement, young people are more active in 2020.
— CIRCLE (@CivicYouth) June 30, 2020
More from our new youth poll: https://t.co/SfQ3tSUQLn pic.twitter.com/v0F4x3SyEl
The Education Trust shared this information on how to be an LGBTQ+ ally.
“I only hope that others continue to challenge the systemic violence against the LGBTQ community, especially within education. In short, we need allies.” – Charlie Scott https://t.co/WZVBpPxbWy #PrideMonth #Pride #LGBTQ+
— The Education Trust (@EdTrust) June 30, 2020
College leaders have the wrong incentives, says The Atlantic in a recent article.
“The obsession of many college leaders with preserving or improving campus metrics, rather than human lives, is a disgrace,” @ibogost writes: https://t.co/sKuLjtOUaN
— The Atlantic (@TheAtlantic) June 30, 2020
Updated June 29: Gov. Doug Ducey announced an Executive Order to close gyms, bars, movie theaters, waterparks, and tubing for 30 days that taked effect at 8 p.m. tonight, because of the increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases.
Click here to read Gov. Ducey’s Executive Order Pausing of Arizona’s Re-opening: Slowing the Spread of COVID-19.
There has been some backlash to the Executive Order.
That was fast. Owner of Phoenix area fitness chain says he’ll sue @dougducey over shutdown. https://t.co/qdmuMtoVvX
— BrahmResnik (@brahmresnik) June 30, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 74,533 today from 73,908 yesterday, and 1,588 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Arizona Dept. of Health Services: COVID-19 News Conference June 29, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 45,178 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 7,568 in Pima County, 5,882 in Yuma County, 3,570 in Navajo County, 3,382 in Pinal County, 2,309 in Apache County, 1,850 in Coconino County, 1,717 in Santa Cruz County, 1,028 in Mohave County, 755 in Yavapai County, 580 in Cochise County, 332 in La Paz County, 271 in Gila County, 92 in Graham County and 18 in Greenlee County.

Earlier coverage
June 29: Video: Gov. delays in-person classes to Aug. 17 due to rise in COVID-19
Updates from June 15 – June 29: Video: Gov. pauses re-opening of some businesses as COVID-19 cases rise
June 24: Plan provides more funding, flexible instruction as schools re-open
Updates from May 26 – June 12: Increase in COVID-19 cases marks a new daily high
Updates from May 20 – 25: AZ Dept. of Ed releases COVID-19 guidance to schools for summer programs, back to school
Updates from May 11 – 19: Arizonans consider workplace safety, what back to school will look like amid COVID-19
Updates from April 26 – May 10: Stores re-open, COVID-19 testing blitz resumes on Saturday
Updates from April 8 – 25: You can get tested now if you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
Updates from March 12 – April 7: Coronavirus response: Cases rise; AZ Day of Giving