Parents voice concern about online class size; school nurses prepare for students

Click here for updates 9/9 and forward
Updated 9/8: As parents decide whether to send their children back to in-person classes in some Arizona school districts, parents who chose online learning for their children express concern about the size of classes for distance learners, The Arizona Republic reports.
District officials say classes are larger because of the nature of virtual programs and that teachers work with students in small groups and one-on-one. But parents worry students could fall through the cracks in crowded classrooms https://t.co/WuhhfmZILN via @lilyalta
— Paulina Pineda 🌵 (@paulinapineda22) September 8, 2020
School nurses around the state use state and federal guidance to help design school COVID-19 mitigation plans to keep students and staff safe, KTAR News 92.3 FM reports.
Arizona school nurses and health assistants have turned to state and federal COVID-19 guidance to create their own protocols.@GriseldaZetino has the story:https://t.co/9LjR4hZisx
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) September 8, 2020
Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman and Vice President of Arizona Education Association Marisol Garcia talk about how the return to in-person instruction is going with ABC 15 Arizona.
TODAY I sat down with @Supt_Hoffman and the VP of @ArizonaEA to get their takes on how this return to the classroom is going, what they think needs to happen next, their response to call-outs closing schools and concerns over transparency in COVID-19 data.
— Danielle Lerner (@DanielleLerner) September 8, 2020
Watch at 5 and 6!
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 206,045 today from 205,964 yesterday, and 5,221 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 136,040 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,035 in Pima County, 12,340 in Yuma County, 9,983 in Pinal County, 5,657 in Navajo County, 3,757 in Mohave County, 3,371 in Apache County, 3,397 in Coconino County, 2,776 in Santa Cruz County, 2,369 in Yavapai County, 1,845 in Cochise County, 1,134 in Gila County, 765 in Graham County, 517 in La Paz County and 59 in Greenlee County.
Interactive Graphic: (Hover over counties and boxes for more info)
Summary
Deer Valley Unified School District principals discussed safety protocols before students return to in-person classes.
Thank you to all Principals who shared amazing ideas 😊#togetherwearestronger @DVUSD https://t.co/qTfVOfn9hU
— Village Meadows (@Village_Meadows) September 8, 2020
Virtual communities are helping Native American youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cronkite News Service reports.
Groups like @AspenInstitute’s @Center4Native are creating virtual communities for #NativeYouth during #Covid19. The pandemic has galvanized young people in tribal communities. https://t.co/OkLU1VBV7g
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) September 8, 2020
Northern Arizona University President Rita Cheng announced she won’t ask the Arizona Board of Regents for an extension to her contract.
It is with great admiration and appreciation for the students, faculty, and staff of @NAU that I share with you the news that I have notified @AZRegents that I do not intend to pursue another extension to my contract. pic.twitter.com/eZggKYFUyP
— Rita Cheng (@NAUPresident) September 8, 2020
The Arizona Board of Regents, which oversees the three state universities, including Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, will begin a national search for a replacement this fall. #phoenix https://t.co/xdrnQXkox6
— PHX Business Journal (@phxbizjournal) September 8, 2020
Certifications are the key to create talent pathways to business, says Lumina Foundation.
This year, #StrongerNation for the first time included industry certifications in its attainment data. See what organizations are leading the way in promoting these credentials. https://t.co/aXbR0mqz5Z
— Lumina Foundation (@LuminaFound) September 8, 2020
Prescott Unified students at Abia Judd Elementary School head to lunch during today’s first day of in-person instruction.
School may be a little different this year due to COVID-19, but there are ways to stay healthy and keep learning, Sesame Street says.
School may look a little different this year, but we can all stay healthy and keep learning together. Get ready to go back to school with @elmo and his daddy! #CaringForEachOther pic.twitter.com/Hcv7thiqs2
— Sesame Street (@sesamestreet) September 8, 2020
Lake Havasu Unified‘s Starline staff welcomes students back to in-person classes and reminds them how long the morning and afternoon sessions will be.
Learning to code creates a way of thinking that helps in all you do, and West-MEC is happy to provide information about their coding program.
“Learning to code stretches your mind, and helps you think better, creates a way of thinking about things that I think is helpful in all domains.”
— West-MEC (@WestMEC) September 8, 2020
—Bill Gates, Co-Founder, Microsoft
.
For more information on our coding program, visit our website, (link in the bio). pic.twitter.com/3Xnr0HSiSh
The City of Phoenix donated more than a million personal protective equipment items to Phoenix schools.
Today, the city of #PHX donated more than 1,000,000 pieces of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for schools in #Phoenix.
— City of Phoenix, AZ (@CityofPhoenixAZ) September 8, 2020
Read all about it in the #PHXNewsroom:https://t.co/SHRKatHz6L#MaskUpPHX pic.twitter.com/WyTuh064kw
One teacher decided to provide distance learning for students from the places where history happened, hear about her journey below.
Fun: a teacher just wrapped up a long road trip remotely teaching “from the places where [history] happened”—from Gettysburg to Williamsburg to Yorktown to Antietam.
— Kyle Stokes (@kystokes) September 8, 2020
She’s due back home in Austin, TX, today. https://t.co/xU4NLwB4Tg #distancelearning
Updated 9/7: Dysart Unified School District shares more info about their safety guidelines as their students return to in-person classes on Sept. 14 and 21.
This week we will be sharing additional info & safety guidelines as students prepare to return to school on Sept. 14th & 21st. One of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs is to wash your hands thoroughly. Students will be reminded to wash hands throughout the school day. pic.twitter.com/nGXIwoP4iI
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 7, 2020
Summary
Cactus Shadows High School Students will return to in-person classes on Wednesday with modifications according to the school principal.
UPDATE: Students will return to in-person classes at Cactus Shadows High School on Wednesday, according to a Facebook post from the school principal. There are some modifications. See post here. #12News https://t.co/nzca6Mnvvr pic.twitter.com/D92X4ijOEI
— JenWahl12News (@JenWahl12News) September 7, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 205,964 today from 205,766 yesterday, and 5,219 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
If you are going to spend time with a group of friends or family members, move the gathering outdoors if possible. #COVID19 is easily transmitted in indoor settings. Don’t forget the sunscreen and water! https://t.co/MxB6hUMrN1 #Quaranteam #SunWise pic.twitter.com/rVAayvbMKE
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 7, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 136,004 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 22,000 in Pima County, 12,333 in Yuma County, 9,981 in Pinal County, 5,659 in Navajo County, 3,762 in Mohave County, 3,372 in Apache County, 3,394 in Coconino County, 2,775 in Santa Cruz County, 2,369 in Yavapai County, 1,841 in Cochise County, 1,132 in Gila County, 766 in Graham County, 517 in La Paz County and 59 in Greenlee County.
Going camping with others from your household is considered low risk on the #COVID19 risk index. Know your risk and stay home if you are sick. https://t.co/Xfut5OCgU3 pic.twitter.com/kQHI0o26Ln
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 6, 2020
Four generations of this family have attended Avondale Elementary School District.
AESD is family… AESD is generations of learning together💙❤️
— Avondale District (@AvondaleESD) September 7, 2020
Mr. Gonzales promoted from our schools in 1954. His children attended from kinder through 8th grade, his grandchildren followed and now his great grandchildren are doing the same. Thank you for choosing AESD pic.twitter.com/yNGolw4dxl
Register now to learn more about Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and University of Arizona‘s opportunities and resources during Tri-University Week.
Tri-University Week begins tomorrow September 8th-12th! 9th-12th graders will have the opportunity to learn more about each of the public in-state universities and compare the opportunities and resources provided https://t.co/lS88BTaw61 #PXUConnectED #ThisIsWhoWeAre 🎓💻✨ pic.twitter.com/y9kjZHderA
— PXU (@PhoenixUnion) September 7, 2020
More than 600 colleges will be online to talk with prospective students during Virtual College Fairs starting Sept. 13. The National Parent Teacher Association encourages students and their families to register now.
Don’t miss it! 600+ colleges will be online to talk with students at https://t.co/i5dlmQObpj on Sept 13, Oct 12, Oct 18, Nov 8. Register now! #nacacfairs pic.twitter.com/Qa0eiAKLjY
— NationalPTA (@NationalPTA) September 7, 2020
Arizona schools are dealing with a laptop shortage after the move to online learning last spring, hear more about it at Arizona PBS.
Schools transitioning to #virtuallearning last spring increased the demand for laptops nationwide. 💻 Now, schools are dealing with a laptop shortage — which has created new, unprecedented challenges in education; watch: https://t.co/2jj3lbe9rd pic.twitter.com/7Pu1H9P5Y0
— Arizona PBS (@arizonapbs) September 7, 2020
A federal judge has temporarily blocked a plan for the Census Bureau to end counting U.S. residents earlier than planned, ruling in a lawsuit joined last week by the Navajo Nation and Gila River Indian Community, KOLD News 13 reports.
Judge halts plan to end Census early, as Arizona, tribal responses lag >> https://t.co/IorJ8oSpFn pic.twitter.com/7If7clJjgR
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) September 7, 2020
A summer academic and baseball program moved online and built the program around the value of being on a team.
VIDEO: Leaders at DREAM’s REAL Kid’s New York summer academic and baseball program decided early on to move the program online.
— Education Week (@educationweek) September 7, 2020
To do that, they relied on their core principle: the value of being on a team. https://t.co/Q9QRBJcwkI pic.twitter.com/af1uPDfoXk
Updated 9/4: The state’s largest school district prepares to welcome students back to in-person classes in a limited way now that it has met COVID-19 public health benchmarks.
Mesa Public Schools, the state’s largest school district, is getting ready to welcome back students in a limited capacity now that Maricopa County has met the three recommended public health metrics. https://t.co/7nLn6aiAqd
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) September 4, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 204,681 today from 203,953 yesterday, and 5,171 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
It’s important to continue to prevent the spread of #COVID19 among our youngest residents. Read today’s blog post for information on COVID-19 in Arizona children. https://t.co/3TeQ42sRrv
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 4, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 135,495 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,574 in Pima County, 12,297 in Yuma County, 9,839 in Pinal County, 5,641 in Navajo County, 3,700 in Mohave County, 3,360 in Apache County, 3,373 in Coconino County, 2,771 in Santa Cruz County, 2,345 in Yavapai County, 1,838 in Cochise County, 1,125 in Gila County, 750 in Graham County, 514 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Let’s continue to protect our loved ones and communities this #LaborDay weekend by following public health guidance ✅ #MaskUpAZ pic.twitter.com/hXcQ1swhSn
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) September 4, 2020

KJZZ is working on a story about how the pandemic has impacted Arizonans’ mental health. Do you have a story about how isolation or other side effects of COVID-19 have affected your mental health or the mental health of someone you know?
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) September 4, 2020
DM us here or send tips to bdowd@kjzz.org. pic.twitter.com/Ta4qdU9t0h
Tucson Unified School District‘s Davis Bilingual Elementary Magnet School is honored as one of America’s top 20 magnet schools.
TUSD school, Davis Bilingual Elementary Magnet School, has been named to the Magnet Schools of America’s Top 20 National Magnet School of Excellence.@MagnetSchlsMSA #Tucson #educationhttps://t.co/RyJmRMAS9H
— Sun Corridor Inc. (@SunCorridorInc) September 4, 2020
In the 2017-18 school year, 40 percent of public school teachers had 10 to 20 y ears experience, says the National Center for Education Statistics.
In 2017–18, about 40% of public school #teachers had 10 to 20 yrs of experience.
— NCES (@EdNCES) September 4, 2020
Check out our UPDATED #FastFact to find out how this compared with 1999–2000 and to learn more about teachers’ experience & educational background: https://t.co/2EZpZRYh1O #EdChat pic.twitter.com/kULRNt4WTL
East Valley Institute of Technology criminal justice students learn to document and draw a crime scene.
#EVIT #CriminalJustice students learned to draw a crime scene as well as document it. It’s harder than it sounds. Measurements need to be taken, accountability for all evidence needs to be written down and so much more when handling a crime scene. #EVITChangesLives #WeAreEVIT pic.twitter.com/uSrt3QY5sU
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) September 4, 2020
Think about having a family reading night during National Literacy Month, Read On Arizona says.
September is #NationalLiteracyMonth. Modeling good reading habits for kids is a great way to build a reader. #reading #literacy #storytime #familyreading pic.twitter.com/xUujKejctB
— Read On Arizona (@ReadOnArizona) September 4, 2020
Here are five tips to help students succeed in online courses, courtesy of U.S. News & World Report.
Online students should plan ahead, set goals and connect with instructors early. https://t.co/fse1ftETE8
— U.S. News Education (@USNewsEducation) September 4, 2020
edutopia offers this anti-racist roadmap to discuss tough topics in class.
A lot of times @edutopia shares simple, quick strategies to help teachers improve their practice—and we love those. This one is not quick but should pay off in rich classroom talks. Really helpful thoughts from @UrbanEdDJ https://t.co/XSotkO6oiV
— Tom Berger (@T_F_Berger) September 4, 2020
Glendale Community College reminds students that Netflix nights start on Friday, Sept. 11.
GCC ASG presents Netflix Nights! 🎬 Grab your favorite snacks, get comfortable, and join us every other Friday from 5-7PM.
— GCC (@gccaz) September 4, 2020
To learn more and vote for your choice of movie visit ➡️ https://t.co/nUUCszHOHI pic.twitter.com/7mbMRhfCeL
Looking for ways to change your school’s approach to discipline and foster safe, inclusive schools? WestEd has some suggestions.
What actions can educators take to shift approaches to #schooldiscipline and foster #safeinclusiveschools? 🌿 Join us on Thurs. 9/10 @ 1:00-2:30 pm PT to learn more https://t.co/qjeHM6AJ6i #edchat #edleaders @CalEndow @CRPatUCLA pic.twitter.com/ZJrlRFUhYW
— WestEd (@WestEd) September 4, 2020
Chandler Unified‘s Haley Elementary teachers are working hard to support students in the drop-in learning lab.
#SchoolSpotlight The Haley Elementary team is working hard to support the drop-in lab. Paraprofesionals Sheri Horcasitas, Susan Kates, & Chantel Harwood are seen assisting students with their online learning. @nephew_pam pic.twitter.com/YDxIT91N3d
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) September 4, 2020
Updated 9/3: Eight Arizona counties have now met the public health benchmarks for schools to resume hybrid learning models, the Arizona Dept. of Health Services said.
Eight Arizona counties, including Maricopa and Pima, have now met the recommended benchmarks for schools to resume a hybrid learning model combining in-person and online learning. See the full list here: https://t.co/xDrfscsWDi pic.twitter.com/UvufMbrgpl
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) September 3, 2020
https://t.co/7dPO3TdVzW pic.twitter.com/jy4bh8Ncmp
— Kathy Hoffman (@Supt_Hoffman) September 3, 2020
Hybrid learning models with vary by district, Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman says.
Because Arizona school districts control their calendars and schedules, they will also dictate how hybrid-learning will be conducted. https://t.co/rMjRUVy9cx
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) September 3, 2020
Globe Unified School District students can return to in-person learning on Monday, Sept. 21st.
COVID benchmarks achieved for return to school campuses:
— InMaricopa.com (@InMaricopa) September 3, 2020
>> https://t.co/Y6rOStMxDr#Maricopa #covid19 #school #onlinelearning pic.twitter.com/DKYbZZRXOI
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 203,953 today from 202,342 yesterday, and 5,130 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: “Arizona reports higher number of new COVID-19 cases, at nearly 1,100, and 65 new known deaths.” (via @alisteinbach) https://t.co/1AHH0AUXfa
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) September 3, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 135,109 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,443 in Pima County, 12,269 in Yuma County, 9,744 in Pinal County, 5,631 in Navajo County, 3,675 in Mohave County, 3,355 in Apache County, 3,355 in Coconino County, 2,761 in Santa Cruz County, 2,342 in Yavapai County, 1,832 in Cochise County, 1,122 in Gila County, 744 in Graham County, 512 in La Paz County and 58 in Greenlee County.

See how dual enrollment can help your student, West-MEC says.
If you want to seize this great opportunity like Adam, make sure to sign up for Dual Enrollment by September 18th. pic.twitter.com/tnNOAyk9gI
— West-MEC (@WestMEC) September 3, 2020
Flagstaff Unified School District congratulates Puente de Hózhó‘s Jillian Hernandez who has been named a top five finalist for the 2021 Arizona Education Foundation Teacher of the Year.
Returning to school during the COVID-19 pandemic is a balancing act between students’ needs and public health, the Brookings Institution says.
Back to school amid the COVID-19 pandemic: Balancing students’ right to education against public health https://t.co/2KCu96YBy0 via @BrookingsInst
— NAESP (@NAESP) September 3, 2020
Tolleson Elementary School District shares this inspiring message from Maya Angelou.
@TollesonESD shares an inspiring message with you honoring Maya Angelou, a great American poet, author and civil rights activist who lived from 1928 – 2014! pic.twitter.com/xovt5bnCkX
— Tolleson Elementary School District (@TollesonESD) September 3, 2020
Educational rights are important, especially for teens and families experiencing homelessness, says All4Ed.
Education is the key to a better life, so it’s crucial that families and youth experiencing #homelessness know their educational rights and how to use them. https://t.co/5TZXAzp2hx @sesamecommunity @SchoolHouseConn pic.twitter.com/TTWcbZVEoa
— All4Ed (@All4Ed) September 3, 2020
Rio Rico High School celebrates Spirit Week.
Arizona Interscholastic Association says Fall sports can compete.
Reporter @therealbj99 brings us the latest on high school sports: Fan attendance at games will be a local decision, the AIA said. School administrators will determine who will be allowed to attend games based on information from @AZDHS + other sources. https://t.co/ZA0CfpdEkO
— Christina Leonard (@caleonard) September 3, 2020
West Point Elementary origami students present their flower table displays.
Arizona’s Census 2020 response rate is lower than the national average, KJZZ 91.5 reports.
Arizona’s response rate for the 2020 Census is lower than the national average.
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) September 3, 2020
The Show speaks with @aethomson about what he makes of where Arizona is right now in terms of its response rate.https://t.co/oPjIpnWspE
Ajo Unified School District makes sure students have access to meals while they learn from home.
Glendale Community College reminds students that tutoring is free.
Did you know that tutoring at GCC is free? You can get help with a wide variety of subjects and classes, all for free without leaving the comfort of your own home!
— GCC (@gccaz) September 3, 2020
Schedule your online appointment today at ➡️ https://t.co/2k5o7kwlU0 pic.twitter.com/1aXMKEyhVc
Queen Creek Unified teachers take part in emergent writing training.
GROWTH- Teachers continue to improve their skills with an emergent writing training. Way to grow, team! #qcleads #professionaldevelopment #writing #preschool #qcpreschool #writingconcepts pic.twitter.com/B3Ivf5PPxJ
— @QCUSDPreschool (@qcusd_preschool) September 2, 2020
East Valley Institute of Technology asks parents what career training they would have been interested in when they were in high school.
#EVIT Parents: If you had a chance to take career training while you were in high school, what program would you have signed up for? #EVITChangesLives #WeAreEVIT pic.twitter.com/svfzRGMxSn
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) September 3, 2020
How Andersen Junior High School teachers provide in-person special services and virtual learning in their classrooms, courtesy of Chandler Unified School District.
#SchoolSpotlight @AJHSJaguars teachers, Victoria Heppler & Stephanie Horton, provide in-person special services & virtual learning in their classrooms. The teachers focus on staying connected with families, while creating engaging & differentiated activities for their students. pic.twitter.com/cyh6XxX8zw
— Chandler Unified SD (@ChandlerUnified) September 3, 2020
Updated 9/2: Families shared what the first day of school looked like with 12 News.
We caught up with a few families who captured their first day of virtual schooling on camera for us one month ago. https://t.co/gqp5pCUMTx
— 12 News (@12News) September 2, 2020
Maricopa County and Pima County might transition to hybrid learning according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: The Arizona Department of Health Services said Maricopa and Pima counties could move into a hybrid learning model on Thursday. https://t.co/mBIvVCr6LT
— 12 News (@12News) September 2, 2020
An East Valley school district is thinking of installing HEPA filters in classrooms before in-person learning begins, KTAR 92.3 FM reports.
An East Valley school district will install HEPA filters in classrooms before children return for in-person learning. https://t.co/7J7hPqlqZk
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) September 2, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 202,861 today from 202,342 yesterday, and 5,065 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 134,346 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,294 in Pima County, 12,264 in Yuma County, 9,690 in Pinal County, 5,625 in Navajo County, 3,351 in Apache County, 3,346 in Coconino County, 2,732 in Santa Cruz County, 3,651 in Mohave County, 2,324 in Yavapai County, 1,830 in Cochise County, 1,117 in Gila County, 498 in La Paz County, 735 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.

Updated 9/1: As schools determine when to return to in-person instruction now that coronavirus cases are declining, azfamily reports that more children and teens in Arizona have been hospitalized from COVID-19 than in any other state.
Plenty of progress regarding #Covid19 in #Arizona: declining positivity rates, hospitalization, and deaths. But health experts are watching closely the impact on kids & teens. Here’s a doctor with what parents need to know. #azfamily #BackToSchool2020 https://t.co/oibpH6ElWr
— olivia fierro (@oliviafierro) September 1, 2020
Dysart Unified School District may begin a phased approach to in-person classes starting Sept. 14 if public health benchmark data continues to trend in the right direction, with all students returning Sept. 21.
Health Benchmark data for Dysart is heading in the right direction, and if the trend continues, we will begin a phased approach to reopen in-person classes. Grades K-4 & 9 will return Sept 14, and grades 5-8 & 10-12 will return Sept 21. More details at https://t.co/KoqfjcjOWd pic.twitter.com/tFoMsbhFMK
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) September 1, 2020
Here are 10 things you can do to prepare you child for returning to in-person classes, courtesy of Cave Creek Unified School District.
Here are some helpful reminders in preparing students for in-person learning on September 8. More information can be found at https://t.co/XwAflI98pJ – #WeAreCCUSD pic.twitter.com/pdRBDDJOI5
— Cave Creek USD (@CaveCreekUSD93) September 1, 2020
FEMA told state and tribal emergency managers that it will no longer reimburse states for the cost of cloth face masks for schools, public housing and courthouses effective Sept. 15, National Public Radio reports. In addition, the agency will stop paying for some disinfection costs unless they are considered an emergency protective measure.
This is UNACCEPTABLE.
— Sasha Pudelski (@SPudelski) September 1, 2020
FEMA announces they will no longer reimburse districts for PPE, disinfectants & more critical safety equipment.
The policy is effective Sept 15th.
In the same breath, the Admin says teachers are “essential workers.”
Details here. https://t.co/kn59QBQsOw
We urge @fema to continue reimbursing PPE and disinfectants under Public Assistance for #COVID19. Our nation’s districts depend on PPE for a safe return to school and the change in guidance comes with significant bureaucratic and administrative burdens.https://t.co/2vXeettgQY
— NSBA | School Boards (@NSBAPublicEd) September 2, 2020
Meanwhile, Arizona State University is changing students housing plans as COVID-19 cases continue to rise, KTAR News 92.3 FM reports.
As coronavirus cases at Arizona State University continue to increase, the school will be adjusting housing plans for on-campus students.https://t.co/XCSgrVxIju
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) September 1, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 202,342 today from 201,835 yesterday, and 5,044 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
In Maricopa County, there are 134,004 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,286 in Pima County, 12,257 in Yuma County, 9,616 in Pinal County, 5,602 in Navajo County, 3,341 in Apache County, 3,334 in Coconino County, 2,732 in Santa Cruz County, 3,639 in Mohave County, 2,311 in Yavapai County, 1,824 in Cochise County, 1,113 in Gila County, 498 in La Paz County, 717 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
COVID-19 antibodies present in patients four months after recovery: study https://t.co/7wPhvLqrKj pic.twitter.com/W521zIf8uY
— Reuters (@Reuters) September 1, 2020

Arizona driver licenses that have an expiration date between March 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020 will be delayed by one year from their original expiration date. https://t.co/Qh4zgHI3uu
— 12 News (@12News) September 1, 2020
Some Arizona charter schools received funds from the federal government’s Paycheck Protection Program while they hadn’t lost any of their state funding, find out what’s happening about that now at KJZZ 91.5 FM.
The Auditor General’s Office is out with a finding regarding concerns that Arizona charter schools were double-dipping. The schools will still be able to keep the money.
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) September 2, 2020
The Show speaks with @charrisazrep more about why. https://t.co/JtMSlWWVpq
Willcox Unified School District congratulated 2020 graduate Dakota Finley , who was selected as a recipient of the Governor’s Future Innovator of the Year for her project to create an asphalt mix substituting recycled HDPE plastic for aggregate.
Congratulations, Dakota! Your hard work and innovation is incredible!
Posted by Willcox Unified School District #13 on Thursday, August 27, 2020
Native American youth navigate a convoluted justice system, Cronkite News reports.
“There’s this whole block of Native American young people, who by accident of history, are now in federal detention. And it’s a travesty.” Read the @news21 story by @joseicastaneda @calah_schlabach @DowdallLayne @matthendley https://t.co/4bkcQP1hPt
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) September 1, 2020
Yuma County launched a school resource page as area schools prepare to welcome students back to the classroom, Yuma Sun reports.
County launches online resource for schools, parentshttps://t.co/gMWV56gdNd
— yumasun (@yumasun) September 1, 2020
A school district in California gave a family a hot spot after their students used Taco Bell’s Wi-Fi to access their coursework.
Two girls used a Taco Bell’s WiFi to access coursework. Their school district responded by giving the family a hotspot so they could do so from home. https://t.co/MW2v2EWIfR
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) September 1, 2020
An endowment will provide several Flowing Wells High School graduates each year a full-ride scholarship to attend University of Arizona.
The new $4.6 million Sandra, Pamela, and Polly Aley Scholarship Endowment is providing full-ride University of Arizona scholarships for six to seven Flowing Wells High School graduates each year in perpetuity. https://t.co/WrGnBHzrWC
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) September 1, 2020
This teacher gives students choices in assignments to show their mastery of goals she’s set for them to meet state standards, according to this Achieve the Core article.
Classroom teacher @tikaee shares how she uses choice boards to meet the needs of all her students in this FAQ-style blog post: https://t.co/u265bczW5K #coreadvocates #educoach #teachervoice pic.twitter.com/HRIFQHhlAa
— achievethecore.org (@achievethecore) September 1, 2020
Peoria Unified thanked the Peoria North Rotary club for a donation to purchase student laptops.
We’re grateful for the support of so many community partners, including the Peoria North Rotary Club! Thank you for your generous donation that will allow us to purchase 12 student laptops! pic.twitter.com/iRoKs7Lki2
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) September 1, 2020
Learning hubs are trying to fill the gap for parents looking for childcare while they work and their students do online learning, National Public Radio reports.
Remote learning created a child care gap for many parents. Some cities are trying fo fill that gap with “learning hubs,” offering students a free or subsidized place to go during the day.
— NPR (@NPR) September 1, 2020
But critics say there isn’t room or funding for everyone.https://t.co/MVCEF6oKWL
Balsz School District‘s Brunson-Lee Elementary showed Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego their testing site in partnership with the City of Phoenix and their socially distanced classrooms.
#ICYMI, @MayorGallego stopped by Brunson-Lee Elementary in the #BalszSchoolDistrict! She utilized a standing temp scanner, saw our COVID-19 testing site in partnership with the @CityofPhoenixAZ, looked at socially distanced classrooms & more! Thanks for visiting, Mayor Gallego! pic.twitter.com/ODIwpJC800
— Balsz SD (@BalszSD) September 1, 2020
Here’s how to find educational apps that work, edutopia says.
Not all educational apps are created equal! Here’s how to sort through the chaos.https://t.co/fRPH90KWak
— edutopia (@edutopia) September 1, 2020
Tempe Elementary’s Laird School students picked up library books curbside to keep reading while learning from home.
Day 11 of 176 school days of #InspireHopeTD3! 📚 Laird School kicked off their curbside library book pick-up last week. Students who want to participate can complete a Library Book Pick-Up form to request books. What a creative way to encourage reading during this time! pic.twitter.com/hfYuYpqQFC
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) August 31, 2020
Need a clear mask? The Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is offering some to residents in need, KOLD News says.
Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers clear masks to residents https://t.co/aMlHJafteZ pic.twitter.com/P6KMYol9Ez
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) September 1, 2020
There’s still time to respond to the 2020 Census before a Census worker knocks on your door, Arizona Civic Leadership says.
Have you responded to the #2020Census? If not, a census worker may visit to make sure your household is counted. But no need to wait to help your community. Take a few minutes to respond now at https://t.co/gRrIanaPaw or call 844.330.2020. #AZCounts pic.twitter.com/uFuZCEdM5l
— AZ Civic Leadership (@AzCCL) September 1, 2020
Students participated in a fitness test and goal setting at Faith Mather Sossaman Elementary School.
Today students in Coach Sprung’s PE class will be participating in a fitness test and setting goals. #engage pic.twitter.com/6zzA2i9yzr
— Sossaman Sabercats (@qcusd_sossaman) September 1, 2020
A Prescott College student spent her summer unearthing 150 years of Prescott Unified School District history, The Daily Courier reports.
Though COVID-19 precautions required she work alone, the AmeriCorps state volunteer still delighted in her white-gloved tasks, uncovering the belated 150-year anniversary story of Prescott Unified School District. #CourierNews https://t.co/s5ixMnS6d6
— The Daily Courier (@TheDailyCourier) August 30, 2020
Students are leading a movement to get school to teach Black history, CNN reports.
From lesson plans that lay bare the horrors of the Tulsa race massacre to literature units that highlight Black authors and Black experiences, young activists and their faculty supporters see an urgent need for education reform. https://t.co/I1U4kiILi6
— CNN (@CNN) August 25, 2020
Fly by the James Baldwin mural in downtown Phoenix in the video below, while listening to audio from an interview with the famous Black novelist, playwright, activist, poet and essayist.
Felt inspired tonight so I flew by the James Baldwin mural in @downtownphoenix off of @RooseveltRowCDC.
— Jared (@Jared_84) September 1, 2020
Audio is from an interview with Baldwin.@abc15 @azcentral pic.twitter.com/xxrmgQjnrF
Phoenix may be the next city to add a Black Lives Matter street mural, azfamily reports.
Phoenix may be the next city to add a ‘Black Lives Matter’ street mural https://t.co/Zz9hLclCvo pic.twitter.com/GSgpLIePaj
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) September 1, 2020
A Flagstaff Unified teacher sings the “Hello Song” with his students.
Happy Friday! It has been a great first week of school thanks to our incredible families and staff. Enjoy this video of Cromer Elementary’s music teacher, Mr. Davis, singing the Hello Song with his students. We can’t wait to say “hello” again next week! pic.twitter.com/89bhFjX3fQ
— Flagstaff Unified School District (@FlagstaffUSD1) August 21, 2020
Kitchen maintenance is done and curbside meal service at H.L. Suverkrup Elementary will resume tomorrow, Crane School District says.
📌📌Kitchen maintenance at H.L. Suverkrup has concluded. Curbside meal service will resume as usual starting tomorrow, September 2nd from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meals for on-site support students will be provided by the HLS nutrition services staff. Thank you! #HLSBulldogs #WeAreCrane pic.twitter.com/3fHD318BIV
— Crane School Dist. (@CraneSchools) September 1, 2020
Updated 8/31: Gov. Doug Ducey called on Arizonans to get a flu shot and outlined the flu plan of action today during a news briefing today with Arizona Dept. of Health Services Executive Director Dr. Cara Christ who talked about the next steps for schools as COVID-19 cases decrease in parts of the state. Watch it here.
Media Briefing on Flu Plan of Action with Gov. Ducey & Dr. Christ – August 31, 2020
“Flu season is around the corner and Arizona isn’t taking any chances,” Gov. Ducey said. “We’ve always taken the flu seriously, but the overlap with COVID-19 this year presents greater challenges than the typical flu season.”
Gov. Ducey said that with public health and resources focused on responding to COVID-19, “preventing the flu is more important than ever.”
Every year in Arizona on average, 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the flu, more than 4,000 people are hospitalized with flu complications and about 700 people die from the flu each year, Gov. Ducey said.
“Health experts will tell you the single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot, doing so can reduce the severity of symptoms and the need for hospitalization for those who do contract the flu,” Gov. Ducey said.
To expand access to flu vaccinations before the upcoming flu season, Arizona’s Dept. of Health services is working to expand the number of flu vaccines available to the uninsured and the underinsured, Gov. Ducey said.
Arizonans will be able to receive one vaccine at their health provider’s office pharmacies, community health centers and facilities run by the local health department, Gov. Ducey said.
“We’re going to be making it easier for Arizonans insured by the state’s Medicare agency AHCCCS to get their flu shot,” Gov. Ducey said, noting that reimbursement rates for flu shots will be increased and that the agency will offer $10 gift cards to members who get the flu vaccine.
These actions have led to a 50 percent increase in flu vaccinations in other states, and “we’re confident they will make a big difference in Arizona as well,” Gov. Ducey said.
In addition, flu vaccines will be available at certain COVID-19 testing sites around the state, Gov. Ducey said.
In coming days, online tools will be rolled out including a vaccine finder and a business toolkit so they can set up their own flu vaccine clinics on site, Gov. Ducey said.
“We’ve been able to make a significant amount of progress in the fight against COVID-19, we can’t let up now,” Gov. Ducey said. “We know many of the same prevention measures that work for COVID-19 will also work for influenza, so please continue doing the things we know that work – the fundamentals – mask up, wash your hands frequently, don’t touch your face, nose, mouth or eyes, stay physically distant, if you don’t feel well please stay home and of course boost your immune system by rolling up your sleeve and getting a flu shot.”
Dr. Christ said we all need to work together to slow the spread of the flu and COVID-19.
Businesses re-opening agreed to follow Arizona Dept. of Health Services guidelines requiring masks for clients and staff except when eating or drinking, reducing physical occupancy, increasing their cleaning and disinfecting practices and screening staff for symptoms prior to the start of their shift and other industry-specific public health requirements, Dr. Christ said.
The AZ Dept of Health Services received more than 800 complaints of businesses not following the guidelines since Thursday, and they are going out to investigate as high-risk complaints come in, Dr. Christ said.
Next steps for schools
“For schools, we all know the critical importance to get our children back in the classroom, but we want to make sure that we’re doing it safely for our students, their families, and their teachers,” Dr. Christ said.
“Working collaboratively with Supt. of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman and her team at the Department of Education a roadmap for reopening schools and benchmarks were developed to return to safe, in-person instruction,” Dr. Christ said.
“Currently, four counties have met the benchmarks to return to the classroom, and many schools have made the decision to return to a hybrid learning model,” Dr. Christ said.
“Based on a forward look at our data, we anticipate that additional counties will move into the moderate category and allow them to move into hybrid learning,” Dr. Christ said.
Schools will post their COVID-19 mitigation plans on their websites so parents can view them and determine if they want to send their child back for in-person instruction, Dr. Christ said.
“It’s a decision that each family needs to make based on the risk to their students and their household loved ones,” Dr. Christ said. “I would encourage parents to review these plans and determine the best method for their families.”
In addition to reporting COVID-19 outbreaks to their local public health department, “schools must notify students, parents, guardians and staff about any outbreaks of COVID-19 at their school,” Dr. Christ said.
“They must also provide their parents with the actions they have taken to keep their students and staff safe,” Dr. Christ said.
“Last week, Supt. Hoffman and I sent a joint letter to schools reminding them of the importance of wearing masks in reducing the spread of COVID-19, and that mask use is required by Executive Order 2020-51,” Dr. Christ said.
“We want everyone who needs a face mask to have access to that so we have partnered with Hanes to provide five free face masks to students and their families. Families and schools can go to AZDHS.gov/ordermasks to get free masks shipped to their home,” Dr. Christ said.
Earlier today, parents looking for tips to help their children with online learning could take a look at this 12 News video.
We’re turning to the experts for some help as we start the new semester. https://t.co/XJqNUReRRZ
— 12 News (@12News) August 31, 2020
Northern Arizona University offers more in-person instruction starting today, KJZZ 91.5 FM reports.
NAU started its fall semester earlier this month with mostly virtual classes, but starting today it will offer more in-person instruction. https://t.co/vRacSd1bai
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) August 31, 2020
Tombstone Unified School District shares what school has been like.
Dysart Unified’s Nutrition Department created a book to honor the work their staff did during the past few months.
Learn more about how Arizona’s universities are dealing with COVID-19 today from 10 a.m. to noon at the online League of Arizona Cities Conference. Register now.
Today’s the day! Kick off day☝🏼of our virtual #LACT20 w/ @NAUPresident @UArizonaPres & @michaelcrow! How are their universities are handling #COVID? + how can #AZ cities & towns help lead the way out of this situation? There’s still time to register 👉🏽https://t.co/Ebmto6sFNs pic.twitter.com/LDZ5gvkYkk
— Arizona League (@AzCities) August 31, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 201,835 today from 201,661 yesterday, and 5,029 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
On the #COVID19 dashboard, today’s update will show a -1 in the “Number of New Deaths Reported Today*” field. The negative number is a result of our efforts to remove duplicate records from the data. Good news: We don’t have any new #COVID19 deaths to report today. #MaskUpAZ pic.twitter.com/IFWNAuWxOp
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 31, 2020
Hospitalizations, ventilator use and ICU beds for COVID-19 patients are all continuing to decline in Arizona: https://t.co/j5XbcIJSLz
— Anne Ryman (@anneryman) August 31, 2020
It’s #MaskUpMonday! We want to thank everyone who supports #MaskUpAZ in our communities! Together we are making a difference. Keep up the great work!#StopTheSpread #FlattenTheCurve pic.twitter.com/2buCFP1Ady
— SciTech Institute (@SciTechInst) August 31, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 133,728 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,221 in Pima County, 12,230 in Yuma County, 9,550 in Pinal County, 5,598 in Navajo County, 3,338 in Apache County, 3,324 in Coconino County, 2,728 in Santa Cruz County, 3,615 in Mohave County, 2,311 in Yavapai County, 1,816 in Cochise County, 1,106 in Gila County, 498 in La Paz County, 714 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
FREE #Covid19 drive-thru saliva testing:
— ASU Biodesign Institute (@ASUBiodesign) August 31, 2020
📍TEMPE
🗓️Wed, 9/2 | Fri, 9/4
⏰6:30am – 10:30am@DiabloStadium
2200 W Alameda Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282
Register below using agency code SALIVATEST:https://t.co/4K3lmgROUB pic.twitter.com/uNboCQN3D1
There are now 133,477 #COVID19 cases & 2,960 deaths in Maricopa County. The daily number of positive cases reported is declining, indicating efforts to wear face coverings & other measures are helping to reduce community spread. Find more data at https://t.co/KNQbnPRvZU. pic.twitter.com/1M3YTp4lUu
— Public Health (@Maricopahealth) August 31, 2020

New rules say nursing homes, assisted living facilities have to have procedures in place by the end of the week to ensure that residents get visitors, even if it’s only outside, tho there are options for indoor visits. https://t.co/7MKjEhkzR6
— azcapmedia (@azcapmedia) August 31, 2020
Madison Elementary School District is providing free COVID-19 testing in September in partnership with Valle Del Sol.
Tolleson Union High School District reminds students to sign up for Zoom sessions to learn more about Arizona State University, University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University, their admission process and financial aid opportunities.
The Tri-University Collaboration is still here to provide students information about their public universities, the admission process, and the opportunities available in Arizona with info sessions will be hosted through Zoom💻📝
— TUHSD News (@TUHSD_News) August 31, 2020
Visit https://t.co/gWaMMirNKX for more details! pic.twitter.com/TfGzFOe5HX
There are five key things school districts should focus on before trying to get students caught up on academics, Education Week reports.
We sought consensus on foundational pieces districts should establish before they turn to further interventions.
— Education Week (@educationweek) August 31, 2020
Interviews with more than a dozen experts yielded five core tenets. Click here to find out what those are. #ReopeningSchools https://t.co/PXJ0jNzuAt
Listen to school social workers describe how they help student development.
First Things First invites you to join their free, online Early Childhood Summit kicking off tomorrow.
We’re kicking things off tomorrow! Join us for our FREE virtual #FTFSummit for all things #earlychildhood. #AZFTF #ECE https://t.co/Fit3yR3rbI
— First Things First (@AZFTF) August 31, 2020
Here’s what some classrooms may look like when students go back to school, The New York Times reports.
<Here’s What America’s Covid-Era Classrooms Look Like https://t.co/6S9irri6XP
— Joy (@Joy_Resmovits) August 31, 2020
Love this, @hwise29.
Sunnyside Unified invites families considering enrolling their children at Octotillo Learning Center to call for more information.
If you are interested in enrolling your child at Ocotillo Learning Center, please contact the school at 520-545-3600.
— Sunnyside Unified School District (@sunnysideusd) August 31, 2020
Enrollment Information:
🔸Newborn to 4 years old
🔸School hours available Monday-Friday 6:45 am to 5:00 pm
🔸Competitive Rates
🔸DES Provider
🔸Food Provided pic.twitter.com/QvIqnMbmij
Maricopa Community College students who need a little help finding resources should check out the college district’s Emergency Assistance Fund.
The Emergency Assistance Fund is now available for Fall 2020!
— GateWay CC (@gatewayaz) August 31, 2020
Receive assistance for emergency needs like books, car repair, food, gas, school supplies, utilities and more.
To apply, please visit the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation website ➡️ https://t.co/MUVwtVdU3c pic.twitter.com/JTqiiEcNU9
Sierra Linda High School students will enjoy this new performing arts center at their school when they return to campus.
Students are the first priority at Pendergast Elementary School District.
“I first learned about PESD as a member of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce where Dr. DeBlieux, the Pendergast superintendent served as the board chair. I am continuously impressed by the all of the people I have met who put students first.” – Cindy Jarnigan pic.twitter.com/DjLUzFlXXc
— PESD92 (@PESD92) August 31, 2020
Updated Aug. 28: Peoria Unified School District‘s Governing Board voted 3-2 against re-opening schools on Sept. 8, and the three board members who voted against said the public health benchmarks should be the basis for re-opening schools, according to a Daily Independent article.
Our next Regular Governing Board Meeting is tonight at 6 p.m.. All Governing Board members will participate in-person, but due to current meeting requirements, the community is invited to participate via the livestream. https://t.co/hvTa4RLyH5. pic.twitter.com/7f6ReMWRMY
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) August 27, 2020
Earlier this month, a medical advisory committee was created to help the district as it determines when to re-open, and the committee advised district administrators to follow the public health benchmarks developed by the Arizona Department of Health Services.
County falls short of school COVID benchmarks:
— InMaricopa.com (@InMaricopa) August 28, 2020
>> https://t.co/Ga8w78WOPo#Maricopa #school #covid19 pic.twitter.com/yDyJkdNITW
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 200,658 today from 200,139 yesterday, and 4,978 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Testing sites are available throughout the state and will continue to be added, particularly in areas with minimal #COVID19 testing capacity. As of today, over 400 testing sites are operational across Arizona. https://t.co/6Xn6BSBo6S #AZTogether
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 27, 2020
In conjunction with Arizona State University, State Farm Stadium will be providing free COVID testing for the community 6:30 – 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 29 and Saturday Sept. 5. You can register for the COVID testing by visiting ASU’s website at https://t.co/HHa1EnRBhl. pic.twitter.com/xEp8qkt640
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) August 28, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 132,986 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,072 in Pima County, 12,165 in Yuma County, 9,488 in Pinal County, 5,569 in Navajo County, 3,329 in Apache County, 3,287 in Coconino County, 2,720 in Santa Cruz County, 3,585 in Mohave County, 2,284 in Yavapai County, 1,809 in Cochise County, 1,101 in Gila County, 498 in La Paz County, 707 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
It is important that we keep wearing masks, physically distancing, and staying home when sick so businesses can remain open and Arizona can continue on this promising trajectory. https://t.co/krtcjDeUrE #COVID19 #AZTogether
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 28, 2020

If you believe a business isn’t following the requirements that were established for the safety of customers, employees, and the public, share your concerns so local and state officials can follow up as needed. Find out how: https://t.co/O97lXoFVrb pic.twitter.com/WM7UhGGbIN
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 27, 2020
Deer Valley Unified School District says great teachers let their students know they care everyday.
TGIF! Our #extraordinary staff give these gifts to our #extraordinary students everyday! #SEL @DVUSD pic.twitter.com/wQeSev75XJ
— DVUSD SEL (@DVUSDSEL) August 28, 2020
Nogales Unified School District is planning a telemedicine program in partnership with Mariposa Health.
NUSD getting ready with webcam technology and planning for a Telemedicine Program in partnership with Mariposa Health.
Posted by Nogales Unified School District #1 on Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Special enrichment courses have never been more important for students says an Avondale Elementary School District lead psychologist as teachers find ways to include the arts and movement during online larning learning.
TGIF! Our #extraordinary staff give these gifts to our #extraordinary students everyday! #SEL @DVUSD pic.twitter.com/wQeSev75XJ
— DVUSD SEL (@DVUSDSEL) August 28, 2020
Tuba City Elementary School will host their virtual family orientation on Monday Aug. 31.
Hear why Phoenix Indian Center CEO Patricia Hibbeler says it’s important for the American Indian community to be counted in the 2020 Census.
Native Americans have been traditionally under counted in the U.S. Census. Having accurate census information which leads to resources is critical to the growth of native peoples. Phoenix Indian Center CEO Patricia Hibbeler explains. https://t.co/ifq1I1GO1L pic.twitter.com/fcVeb7CAw2
— City of Phoenix, AZ (@CityofPhoenixAZ) August 28, 2020
Maricopa Community Colleges congratulated Julissa Muñoz, who will serve as an advocate for students on the governing board.
Congratulations to the 2020-21 Student Governing Board Member, Julissa Muñoz. We are excited to have her serve as an advocate for our students and look forward to her influence on the student experience. 👏👏 👏 #MCCCD ▶️ https://t.co/CZLp8T9qOF pic.twitter.com/GATQhFXQQg
— Maricopa Community Colleges (@mcccd) August 28, 2020
Hear how Dysart Unified School District partners with local businesses to give students real world training.
In this week’s edition of Super in 60 Seconds, I welcome CTE Director Jim Grieshaber to talk about how Dysart partners with local businesses to give students hands-on, real world training for careers. @DysartUSD pic.twitter.com/gBLZUVhwj9
— Quinn Kellis (@qrkellis) August 28, 2020
Take part in an equity webinar to ensure all students are college and career ready on Thursday, Sept. 3, hosted by The School Superintendents Association.
Next week’s Leading for Equity webinar is on ensuring all students are career and college ready. Register now to join @AnnLPGA and Christine Johns on Thursday (9/3) at 5pm EDT: https://t.co/kKLnq0vny7 @AASATotalChild #supts4equity pic.twitter.com/1OdDR85r7r
— AASA (@AASAHQ) August 28, 2020
Black Mothers Forum founder Janelle Woods speaks at the Phoenix event supporting the Get Your Knee Off Our Necks anti-racism rally, Cronkite News reports.
“For those of us who are not going (to Washington), it shows our solidarity across the nation,” said Janelle Woods of Black Mother’s Forum, one of the speakers at the Phoenix event. https://t.co/3HkKNZ1FDK
— Cronkite News (@cronkitenews) August 28, 2020
George Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, spoke at the March on Washington today demanding racial equity, watch the full program courtesy of Reuters.
George Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, spoke at the #MarchOnWashington demanding racial equality. Watch the full program: https://t.co/R9FayDTd1t pic.twitter.com/BVHseLWVGj
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 28, 2020
Learn more about creating safe and inclusive schools in The Education Trust‘s new guide so the disturbing fact of school discipline below changes quickly.
#DidYouKnow that nationally, Black girls are more than 4x more likely than White girls to be arrested at school? Learn more in our new guide with @nwlc https://t.co/AJqD2xIn1v #SchoolDiscipline #SafeInclusiveSchools pic.twitter.com/pe15a7gLyr
— The Education Trust (@EdTrust) August 28, 2020
Schools are finding ways to make remote learning engaging and equitable despite plenty of tech issues, Education Week reports.
The value of engaging students remotely during the pandemic, despite the challenges of executing it effectively and equitably, can’t be overstated. https://t.co/q0FeEPk70M
— Education Week (@educationweek) August 28, 2020
Hear what the back to school experience has been like for two families from 12 News.
Two Valley families are navigating school through the new normal of the pandemic. Although their school scenarios are different there are some things they agree on. https://t.co/tne8OGRjUE
— 12 News (@12News) August 28, 2020
Tempe Elementary School District thanks the Tempe Coalition for donting bags filled with supplies for students.
Two Valley families are navigating school through the new normal of the pandemic. Although their school scenarios are different there are some things they agree on. https://t.co/tne8OGRjUE
— 12 News (@12News) August 28, 2020
Yes, teachers, you can use trauma informed practices with students during online learning, Education Week reports.
We need each other, now, and our joining together is itself a defense—an inoculation—against that which seeks to divide us, writes @brcollins27.
— Education Week (@educationweek) August 28, 2020
Here’s how to support students experiencing adversity in an online environment. #EWopinion https://t.co/I1Hkgnz0ja
Updated Aug. 27: The Arizona Department of Health Services reminds school leaders that it recommends county-specific benchmarks be in the moderate or minimal range in all categories for two weeks before schools offer hybrid learning – a mix of in-person instruction and online learning.
The Schools Dashboard was updated today on our website. We continue to recommend county-specific benchmarks be in the moderate or minimal transmission category in all 3 benchmarks for 2 weeks in order to provide hybrid learning. https://t.co/uNfB4LjWTq #AZTogether pic.twitter.com/vur7k3nBTr
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 27, 2020
Mesa Public Schools Supt. Dr. Andi Fourlis discussed during a Facebook Live session yesterday a possible return to modified in-person learning on Sept. 14 if the state’s public health benchmarks are met.
Today at 4 p.m., join us for a Facebook live event discussing modified in-person learning. Hear from district leadership as they discuss the transition to a modified in-person learning model and answer your questions live. See you there at https://t.co/oxGOxsJFT3!
— Mesa Public Schools (@mpsaz) August 26, 2020
Kyrene Schools are also preparing for a safe return to in-person instruction.
Maricopa County health benchmark data, released this afternoon, shows Kyrene continues to be in the moderate risk category. The Board and @kyrenesupt took action this week to begin preparing for a Safe Return to in-person learning. Full Update: https://t.co/DrzbUQspqP
— KyreneSchools (@KyreneSchools) August 27, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 200,139 today from 199,459 yesterday, and 4,929 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Positive news: As of today Apache, Cochise, Coconino, La Paz, Maricopa, Navajo, Pima, and Yavapai, are in the moderate transmission level. This is a credit to all the things Arizonans have done to reduce the spread of #COVID19, keep it up! https://t.co/pH0u1rsJvW #AZTogether
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 27, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 132,704 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 21,001 in Pima County, 12,142 in Yuma County, 9,435 in Pinal County, 5,546 in Navajo County, 3,323 in Apache County, 3,269 in Coconino County, 2,718 in Santa Cruz County, 3,566 in Mohave County, 2,277 in Yavapai County, 1,805 in Cochise County, 1,095 in Gila County, 498 in La Paz County, 702 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
Testing sites are available throughout the state and will continue to be added, particularly in areas with minimal #COVID19 testing capacity. As of today, over 400 testing sites are operational across Arizona. https://t.co/6Xn6BSBo6S #AZTogether
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 27, 2020

Businesses in Maricopa, Pima counties OK’d for partial reopening, via @jeremyduda https://t.co/FwykrvotQD
— Arizona Mirror (@ArizonaMirror) August 27, 2020
Andrea Heaton in Tempe Elementary’s Nutrition Services Department has been handing out cloth face masks to fellow staff members to help brighten their day.
Day 9 of 176 school days of #InspireHopeTD3 😊 Andrea Heaton, Executive Administrative Assistant in our Nutrition Services Department, has been making cloth face masks and handing them out to fellow staff members to brighten their day. Thanks to Andrea for being a light! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Uh6ZvMYn1l
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) August 27, 2020
Cartwright School District’s monthly meetings for students’ parents and school administrators have started up again.
Attend a Cafecito (parent meeting) via Zoom, call your school for more information. https://t.co/scWsvgGEtj
— Desert Sands MS (@DesertSandsMS) August 27, 2020
One Team, Una Familia! pic.twitter.com/8AZNwVYXuO
Experts share their dos and don’ts for remote learning, courtesy The Hechinger Report.
The do’s and don’ts of remote learning, according to the experts. @JaveriaSal‘s latest: https://t.co/5H0DtDBewg
— The Hechinger Report (@hechingerreport) August 27, 2020
Working from home and helping your children with their online learning? You’re not alone hear what Dr. Haynes from University of Arizona has to say tomorrow at 8:30 p.m. courtesy of Arizona Public Media.
Struggling with working from home and helping kiddos with virtual learning? You’re not alone says #drhaynes from @uarizona college of public health. Tips on how to manage Friday at 830pm on @az360show @azpublicmedia pic.twitter.com/DpbImFAg1p
— Lorraine Rivera (@lorrainerivera) August 27, 2020
Sunnyside Unified shared this picture of the Challenger Middle School soccer team as part of Throwback Thursday.
THROWBACK THURSDAY!
— Sunnyside Unified School District (@sunnysideusd) August 27, 2020
Check out this photo from 2017 of the Challenger Middle School SUSD boy’s soccer team! ⚽️
Do you have a #ThrowbackThursday picture that would be perfect to feature? Please share with us at susdnews@susd12.org.#SunnysideUnified#SunnysideRising pic.twitter.com/MnMehtZMwd
Deer Valley Unified highlights the great work their teachers are doing leading online learning.
The #Stars are out at @LasbrisasS Elementary School @DVUSD. #extraordinary pic.twitter.com/Ji2aeKYUav
— Curt Finch, PhD (@DrFinchDVUSD) August 27, 2020
Take part in the discussion today and the effort to make sure all children are counted in the 2020 Census to ensure schools and communities receive funds for vital programs.
TODAY at 3PM! It’s on us to make sure EVERY CHILD is counted in the #2020Census! Join us, @Child_360, @NALEO & @First5Assoc to talk schools & communities & the work to engage students and families in this final push to ensure #AllKidsCount! Register here: https://t.co/rul72CxlPf pic.twitter.com/5QuuRCl5ur
— The Children’s Partnership (@KidsPartnership) August 27, 2020
Here are some tips to make using iCivics during remote learning easier.
Our support team put together some tips to help make the switch to using iCivics remotely a little easier…including a new video on creating student accounts! 🚨
— iCivics (@icivics) August 27, 2020
Read the tips: https://t.co/MqmZti9ik8 pic.twitter.com/ki9NEr6ryV
Want to know more about federal assistance funds and how to use them? Check out this webinar from the Arizona Department of Education and its partners.
Additionally, we created a series of visual resources as a reference for school leaders:
— AZ Department of Ed (@azedschools) August 27, 2020
✅ https://t.co/llAoUF1GWx
✅ https://t.co/28LMo8YAZb
Arizona State University congratulated Cecilia Mata on her appointment to the Arizona Board of Regents.
On behalf of @ASU, congratulations to Cecilia Mata on her appointment to the @AZRegents. We look forward to welcoming Regent Mata and to working together to keep #highereducation in #Arizona moving forward.
— Michael Crow (@michaelcrow) August 27, 2020
Does your child need to get caught up on vaccines? Click below to find out about free immunizations available this Saturday at Greenway Middle School.
Maricopa County Department of Public Health will be offering free back to school immunizations this Saturday, August 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Greenway Middle School. See flyer for details including health and safety practices, and required documents. pic.twitter.com/KFaXx4oo8S
— PVSchools (@pvschools) August 27, 2020
A Cronkite School graduate student talks to a wildlife rehabilitator who helped orphaned baby wombats.
What’s it like having baby wombat roommates during the #COVID19 lockdown? Cronkite master’s student @mishthejrnalist spoke to a wildlife rehabilitator who turned her one-bed apartment into a home for orphaned joeys (@NatGeo): https://t.co/SX5OWDMJD7 pic.twitter.com/rtTIVU86Wi
— Cronkite School (@Cronkite_ASU) August 27, 2020
Arizona Association for Gifted & Talented thanks sponsors of Parent Institute 2020.
Thank you to our first two business sponsors for #ParentInstitute2020 – Bright Child Books & Genius Coaching! Plenty of opportunities to showcase your products and services to the parents/caregivers of gifted children. Learn more on our website: https://t.co/oHN9lJpLg6
— Arizona Association for Gifted & Talented (@GiftedAZ) August 27, 2020
Updated Aug. 26: As COVID-19 cases enter the moderate area of the public health benchmarks, some schools boards like Peoria Unified School District will meet later this week to consider re-opening for in-person classes soon, while others like Tolleson Union High School District plan to continue distance learning until cases in their communities decline.
Arizona State University’s president said that 161 students and staff members have tested positive for coronavirus. https://t.co/aDZ9LgdYLx
— 12 News (@12News) August 26, 2020
A network outage affected students distance learning in Marana Unified earlier today.
Network outage affecting students in Marana Unified School District >> https://t.co/ac6WVBazpm pic.twitter.com/CZqjRIuyfE
— KOLDNews (@KOLDNews) August 26, 2020
COVID-19 cases in children have risen more than 21 percent since early August indicates an updated joint report from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association, CNN says.
More than 70,000 new Covid-19 cases in children have been reported across the US since early August, new data shows. https://t.co/potvvJex81
— CNN (@CNN) August 26, 2020
Alhambra Unified School District teachers are finding interesting ways to engage their students in online learning just a week after classes started.
One week in and our teachers are doing amazing things!!! Using WebEx, sharing their iPad screen, setting high expectations and engaging students! Wow 🤩 @dpvils @LearningVerizon pic.twitter.com/l0se2Oii4q
— Barcelona Elementary School (@BarcelonaAESD) August 26, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 199,459 today from 199,273 yesterday, and 4,896 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
NEW: “Arizona reports fewer than 200 new COVID-19 cases, more than 100 new known deaths.” (via @alisteinbach) https://t.co/AnrzhbbqQE
— Dan Nowicki (@dannowicki) August 26, 2020
In Maricopa County, there are 132,434 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 20,911 in Pima County, 12,103 in Yuma County, 9,247 in Pinal County, 5,529 in Navajo County, 3,309 in Apache County, 3,266 in Coconino County, 2,718 in Santa Cruz County, 3,541 in Mohave County, 2,260 in Yavapai County, 1,802 in Cochise County, 1,081 in Gila County, 496 in La Paz County, 698 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
The Arizona Department of Health Services will offer free saliva-based COVID-19 testing to the general public this week.@sdbourque1 has the details.https://t.co/nCbXOaQbcD
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) August 26, 2020

FYI ADHS says they had a reporting error on the inpatient metrics https://t.co/3eY6XrCsJy
— Nicole Grigg (@NicoleSGrigg) August 26, 2020
The CDC has quietly updated COVID-19 testing guidance on its website, now seeming to downplay the importance of testing asymptomatic people exposed to the coronavirus. https://t.co/ZhXbLd9iBB
— 12 News (@12News) August 26, 2020
Arizona is preparing to re-open nursing homes to visitors who test COVID-19 free, says The Arizona Republic.
How soon could Arizona nursing homes re-open to visitors? We have the answers here: https://t.co/IiVoRppRxH
— Anne Ryman (@anneryman) August 26, 2020
Many Arizona assisted-living centers has to stop taking in new admissions and some families chose to bring their loved ones home during the COVID-19 pandemic, KJZZ 91.5 FM reports.
Many long-term care facilities are struggling to stay afloat financially due to the coronavirus pandemic.@kathymritchie reports.https://t.co/GPbRhClhHs
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) August 26, 2020
Arizona Dept. of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ said bars that serve food would be able to re-open tomorrow now that COVID-19 cases are in the moderate range according to public health benchmarks if they follow the guidelines and keep occupancy at 50 percent said on The Mike Broomhead Show on KTAR 92.3 FM today.
Dr. Cara Christ, Director of @AZDHS, joined @BroomheadShow and talked about when bars will be allowed to reopen and when she thinks Arizona will enter a minimal spread phase. pic.twitter.com/GA9wXMcBWK
— KTAR News 92.3 (@KTAR923) August 26, 2020
Pima County close to meeting metrics for gyms, theaters, some bars to reopen https://t.co/VeahkKIpjQ via @azcapmedia
— Justin Sayers (@_JustinSayers) August 26, 2020
Raising Arizona Kids talks about how Frank Lloyd Wright liked to reuse materials in his work an encourage students to find things around their home they can use to create with.
RT @WrightTaliesin: This Wednesday’s Frank Lloyd Wright Virtual Classroom looks at how Wright liked to reuse materials. For this activity, collect some recyclables, trash, or other *clean* scraps. What can you build with them? An art piece? A home? pic.twitter.com/vUfgjbwKl2 pic.twitter.com/kA1RIy7jUy
— Raising Arizona Kids (@RAKmagazine) August 26, 2020
FREE vaccinations are available for all children from Preschool-12th grade tomorrow, Thurs. August 27, from 3pm-6:30pm, at Freedom Traditional Academy, Dysart Unified School District says.
Just a reminder that @Maricopahealth is offering FREE vaccinations for all children from Preschool-12th grade tomorrow, Thurs. August 27, from 3pm-6:30pm, at Freedom Traditional Academy. Any questions should be directed to Maricopa County Public Health at 602-506-6767. pic.twitter.com/VAMcGVBwQ1
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) August 26, 2020
Peoria Unified School District congratulated Peoria High School graduate Lyndzi Ramos, who was recently named the “Doodle for Google” winner for Arizona.
Way to go, Lyndzi! #PeoriaUnifiedPridehttps://t.co/3E6R7QlZQu
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) August 24, 2020
GateWay Community College’s Learning Center is offering virtual learning support for students and staff’s elementary school age children, email them to find out more.
The GateWay Children’s Learning Center is now offering virtual learning support for elementary school children in order to support students and staff who will be on campus.
— GateWay CC (@gatewayaz) August 26, 2020
Limited space is available. For more info or to enroll your child, email us at clc@gatewaycc.edu. pic.twitter.com/u181qSDDsp
If someone you know is struggling, the counselors at the Lifeline are here to help.
The world is a better place because you’re in it 💚 If you or someone you know is struggling with tough thoughts or emotions right now, call the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Counselors are ready to listen, 24/7/365.
— The Lifeline (@800273TALK) August 26, 2020
🎨: @/jacquelinewhitney_ on Instagram. pic.twitter.com/wiXxugN9NS
High school students interested in learning digital photography, Adobe Photoshop and podcasting should apply now to The SPOT’s Youth Media Center.
Our Youth Media Center @SPOT127 is now accepting 2020 ONLINE FALL Applications. Tell the high school students in your life to join us this Fall and learn digital photography, Adobe Photoshop, and podcasting. Apply today! https://t.co/BKAuMni4iv pic.twitter.com/tcBaYUmvC9
— KJZZ Community (@yourkjzz) August 25, 2020
Teachers, here’s an idea on how to monitor students work in breakout groups from another teacher.
A helpful way to monitor student work in online breakout rooms. https://t.co/qGVd1aY9G2
— edutopia (@edutopia) August 26, 2020
Hear how a Tempe Elementary School District instructional guide helped a student struggling to use Google Classroom.
and how to work in her new school space, so she made a special appointment with the staff to go over her schedule and walk her through it all.
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) August 26, 2020
Ms. Jessica is a perfect example of our teachers who are striving to be lights during this time. ❤️
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) August 26, 2020
A quick reminder to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or with a paper form, when you’re counted it helps provide funding for many educational and community programs for residents of all ages.
We’re officially late to the party, Surprise. 75% of households across the US have been counted in the #2020Census. Surprise is at 68.3%. Let’s SHOW UP for our city. Respond now: https://t.co/4p1I6bhsa7 Track progress: https://t.co/SeLbKeMZNs #EveryoneCountsInSurprise #AZCounts pic.twitter.com/cpRm1UfWmY
— City of Surprise (@AZSurprise) August 26, 2020
What works for increasing family engagement with schools? Hear what some school leaders are saying in the School Superintendents Association Twitter chat this morning.
Q4: What are some things you have done to increase family engagement that have NOT worked well? Share your reflections on how you plan to do it differently in the future. #AASAEarlyEd pic.twitter.com/QVjnb03lwT
— AASA (@AASAHQ) August 26, 2020
A4 #AASAEarlyEd
— Peter Finch (@suptfinch) August 26, 2020
We have learned that you cannot rely only on email for communication. Some families need a text message reminder. Some need a phone call. Some need a home visit. We have to be prepared to do “whatever it takes” to engage all kids & families. #Culturize pic.twitter.com/eQv7EVFBIg
A3: Some things we have done that HAVE worked really well are STEM nights with the elem school Title I nights. Families like bringing everyone & we provide food and activities for all ages. We also get good turn out at the annual Healthy Family Fair at the mall! #AASAEarlyEd
— Dr. Lisa Stevenson (@lisamstevenson) August 26, 2020
Arizona State University was ranked in the top 1 percent of universities world wide on the quality of student education, faculty members’ research, research publications, patents and broad impact according to the Center for World University Rankings.
.@ASU‘s impressive ranking out of 20,000 world universities is in part a reflection of the university’s continuous expansion of its global reach through research and education. #ASU https://t.co/5CLNDCri5R
— aztechcouncil (@aztechcouncil) August 25, 2020
A U.S. appeals court today ruled that a Virginia school board acted unlawfully in preventing a transgender student from using a bathroom at his high school that corresponded with his gender identity, Reuters reports.
U.S. appeals court sides with transgender student over bathroom access https://t.co/4sFkteyobv pic.twitter.com/Zj2cUByqdx
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 26, 2020
Learn more about adapting civics education to this digital age with iCivics.
Learn more about the future of civics education in @EducationNext’s interview with @Louise_Dube, executive director of @iCivics, then read the most recent NAEP civics results: https://t.co/gJYOpAUsf2 https://t.co/isuxSdesqL @rickhess99
— The Governing Board (@GovBoard) August 26, 2020
Updated Aug. 25: All Arizona public, private and charter schools with kindergarten- through 12th-grade students, childcare centers and shelters are now required to report outbreaks of COVID-19 to their local health department as a result of an Arizona Department of Health Services emergency measure.
A new emergency measure aimed at improving the #publichealth response to outbreaks applies to:
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 25, 2020
✔️ public schools
✔️ charter schools
✔️ private schools with students from kinder-12th grade
✔️ child care establishments and sheltershttps://t.co/UIBxVyhcRs pic.twitter.com/rLxljmfqbP
A week after schools were required to provide on-site support services for vulnerable students, Tucson Unified closed a second school and two special education classes on another campus after a student and staff member tested positive for COVID-19, the Arizona Daily Star reports.
In the second week of Gov. Doug Ducey requiring schools to offer in-person services, Tucson’s largest school district fully closes another campus and partially shutters another due to COVID-19. https://t.co/V8HjSqMW3A
— Arizona Daily Star (@TucsonStar) August 25, 2020
Maricopa County’s school dashboard is helpful for anyone interested in seeing how where they live is doing on state public health benchmarks.
Though designed for school decision makers, our School Reopening Dashboard is helpful for anyone looking to follow trends and see how we compare to state benchmarks. Find information by city, zip code, or school district here: https://t.co/ZclcsUN98r pic.twitter.com/FZN1e6mM6c
— Maricopa County (@maricopacounty) August 25, 2020
Businesses in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal counties could be allowed to partially reopen this week after Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ said public health benchmarks updated on Thursdays indicate those counties are likely to move into the moderate category of community spread.
Arizona is heading in the right direction in our fight against #COVID19. We anticipate that Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties will be in the moderate range for business reopening when the dashboard updates this Thursday. Let’s all keep doing our part. https://t.co/YTrqmXLhFY
— AZ Dept of Health (@AZDHS) August 25, 2020
To reopen, those businesses would need to follow guidelines that include limiting occupancy, requiring masks of staff and patrons and if they do not they will be subject to strict enforcement, Dr. Christ said.
More details: https://t.co/8PaJ9L4KKJ https://t.co/08CbF8cSHM
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) August 25, 2020
Harkins Theatres announced that it will reopen all Arizona locations this Friday after being closed since the pandemic began. https://t.co/bDZEyUC2cJ
— 12 News (@12News) August 25, 2020
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Arizona rose to 199,273 today from 198,414 yesterday, and 4,792 have died from the virus, said the Arizona Department of Health Services.
CDC drops 14-day quarantine guidance for international, out-of-state travelers
— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) August 24, 2020
https://t.co/x0lmj1bnX8 #abc15 pic.twitter.com/R73F6kvjcB
In Maricopa County, there are 132,290 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 20,919 in Pima County, 12,085 in Yuma County, 9,232 in Pinal County, 5,523 in Navajo County, 3,309 in Apache County, 3,264 in Coconino County, 2,728 in Santa Cruz County, 3,534 in Mohave County, 2,259 in Yavapai County, 1,798 in Cochise County, 1,083 in Gila County, 496 in La Paz County, 694 in Graham County and 58 in Greenlee County.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updates quarantine guidance for travelers, removing direct advice to stay home for 14 days after returning from international travel or areas with high levels of Covid-19 https://t.co/rrbqd5ebqK pic.twitter.com/atSB0iLtV7
— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) August 25, 2020

Dysart Unified School District thanked an El Mirage student and staff members who helped with a health emergency during an online lesson.
Huge shoutout to several @ELMESTigers staff members and a very responsible student who assisted during a health emergency that occurred during an online lesson. Superintendent @qrkellis presented #DysartExtraordinary pins to all involved for their heroic efforts. #WeAreDysart pic.twitter.com/rdYScHpWWh
— Dysart School District (@DysartUSD) August 25, 2020
Flagstaff High School senior and member of the Navajo Nation Alyssa Williams won the the Code Talker Seal Design Contest.
Alyssa Williams, a member of the Navajo community and Flagstaff High School senior, won the Code Talker Seal Design Contest. Her design reflects the historical and unique contributions made by the #CodeTalkers. Way to go, Alyssa! More: https://t.co/elXXMAaQ2D @ArizonaDOT @NHOnews
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) August 25, 2020
Tempe Elementary’s Rover Elementary School staff sent this fun message to students and their families reminding them that we’re all in this together.
Day 7 of 176 school days of #InspireHopeTD3 😊 Rover Elementary School staff came together to have fun and send a positive message to their families reminding them that this school year, and every year, we are all in this together! Thanks for spreading cheer and being a light! pic.twitter.com/JsgYhBrFdX
— Tempe Elementary (@TempeElementary) August 25, 2020
Here are some ways to encourage Black teachers to continue working in schools, edutopia says.
“Supporting Black students and disrupting systemic barriers in our schools also means supporting Black teachers in the educational community.” Here are some steps White allies can take to encourage Black teachers to stay in the profession.https://t.co/pBvdScvgGF
— edutopia (@edutopia) August 25, 2020
University of Arizona’s newest class is the most diverse ever, the Arizona Board of Regents says.
The University of Arizona’s newest class of Wildcats, which began classes yesterday, will be its most diverse class ever. https://t.co/aOMx4lrgQC
— Arizona Board of Regents (@AZRegents) August 25, 2020
Looking to increase students’ writing interest? Consider asking your students to read and write fan fiction, says KQED.
Consider implementing fan fiction into your class to increase literacy and interest in writing. #PinalCoTchr https://t.co/WCRaqR975W
— Pinal Co. ESA PD Div (@PinalCountyESA) August 25, 2020
Manuel Pena Jr. Elementary School second graders get to celebrate after submitting their quiz.
When 30 out of 30 second graders successfully submit a quiz, you CELEBRATE!!! #CartwrightIsBack #oneteamunafamilia #bebettertodaythanyouwereyesterday pic.twitter.com/E0bdh201b0
— Manuel Peña Jr. Elem (@PenaElemCoyotes) August 25, 2020
Holiday Park second graders learn about how to accept consequences appropriately and how to follow online learning expectations.
@holidayparkcsd 2nd grade students learn about PBIS and BoysTown! #roadrunnersrock @CartwrightSD pic.twitter.com/CadysgVcrl
— Holiday Park School (@holidayparkcsd) August 25, 2020
An Avondale Elementary School District teacher leads her class in some positive reinforcement exercises.
Garr stars are leaders💙Thanks for being our classmates today! pic.twitter.com/gBUeESQEJ6
— Avondale District (@AvondaleESD) August 25, 2020
Online classes have been difficult for some students, CNN reports.
A mother captured an emotional photo of her son becoming so frustrated with the remote back-to-school experience that he put his head down and cried. “I just took that picture because I wanted people to see reality,” Jana Coombs told a CNN affiliate. https://t.co/uy1vf3vAXz
— CNN (@CNN) August 25, 2020
It’s time to close the digital divide and reinvent education with strong relationships, authentic learning and equity, says Linda Darling-Hammond.
#COVID19 has exposed the need to reinvent a century-old system of education. Closing the digital divide while recreating schools for relationships, authentic learning, and equity can make education equitable and empowering. #RestartReinventSchool https://t.co/H6MvzaaQrl
— LindaDarling-Hammond (@LDH_ed) August 25, 2020
Yuma School District One students received internet hot spots to help them with their online learning.
District One students receive internet hot spots for online learninghttps://t.co/WC5KkRcYk4
— yumasun (@yumasun) August 25, 2020
Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson invites you to take part in STEMProLive at 10 a.m. on Friday.
#STEMProLive at Home is THIS Friday at 10 am. We’ll learn about the #GreenDroneArizonaProject! There is still time to register and since most students are distance learning, share the link with them to watch at home! https://t.co/VSP5upmLag https://t.co/q7nYhXPYVe
— Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson (@mcschoolsup) August 25, 2020
To learn about how Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program recipients and applicants will be affected, The Show spoke with Ruben Reyes, a Phoenix attorney with the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is officially implementing a new set of rules around the DACA program.
— KJZZ Phoenix (@kjzzphoenix) August 25, 2020
The Show speaks with @rubenlreyes about this. https://t.co/4vTuY7xg9p
The move to learning pods could increase segregation and worsen racial and economic disparities, the Annie E. Casey Foundation says.
“The reality is we, a lot of time, have in-group favoritism, so these pods will likely look like and reflect the people we spend the most time with… These will end up being segregated environments for these students.” https://t.co/GlXKDnS3AS
— Annie E. Casey Fdn (@AECFNews) August 25, 2020
GLSEN and other organizations are helping LGBTQ+ students while they’re learning from home, azfamily reports.
Phoenix organization helping LGBTQ+ students during pandemic: https://t.co/yb0WMR62oM pic.twitter.com/afEHceF8lQ
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) August 26, 2020
Scottsdale Unified reminds students to apply for the Superintendent’s Student Advisory board soon.
Just a few more days until applications are due for the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board. We’re looking for high school student voices to contribute diverse points of view. Interested students should submit an application to their principal by Sept. 7 for consideration. pic.twitter.com/wwhKpM67Lb
— Scottsdale Unified School District (@ScottsdaleUSD) August 25, 2020
Tolleson Union High School District reminds students and families that they can pick up their 5-day meal pack at all 6 campuses every Tuesday from 5 -6 p.m.
Note the new time change, 5 – 6 p.m. instead of 5 – 7 p.m.
— Tolleson UHSD (@TollesonUhsd) August 25, 2020
See you this afternoon to pick up your 5-day meal pack for @TollesonUhsd students. pic.twitter.com/hX3N3b7daq
East Valley Institute of Technology second-year students help first-year students using mills and lathes.
#Machining Technology: Second-year Dominic Reynolds was mentoring the first-year student Bryce Dunn on how to use the lathe to create threads. Second-year student Jordan Garcia was just starting on a project on the mill.#EVITChangesLives #WeAreEVIT pic.twitter.com/g77Bd3VLXd
— EVIT Career & College Prep #WeAreEVIT (@EVITnews) August 25, 2020
More colleges are seeing increases in COVID-19 cases as in-person instruction starts up again.
More U.S. colleges see spike in COVID-19 cases after classes resume https://t.co/wPaVBpZzos pic.twitter.com/6ZQwIqpAds
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 25, 2020
Seeking to boost your career skills? Maricopa Community Colleges may have just the certificate program for you.
#Commcolleges play a critical role in training and preparing Arizona’s #workforce. Through programs like the Google IT Professional Support certificate, MCCCD and @pimaonline continue to create solutions for our community to succeed.
— Maricopa Community Colleges (@mcccd) August 25, 2020
➡️@chamberbiznews: https://t.co/Z3YRcDGd0X
Peoria Unified congratulates students who received nominations in the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Student Production Awards Rocky Mountain Division.
.@SunriseMustangs recently received 14 total nominations in the NATAS Student Production Awards Rocky Mountain Division! Way to go Mustangs! The winners will be announced Sept. 19. #PeoriaUnifiedPride pic.twitter.com/wb3r8PPRnx
— Peoria Unified (@PeoriaUnified11) August 25, 2020
Earlier coverage
Aug. 12 – Aug. 24: Students, teachers affected by Zoom outage
July 30 – Aug. 11: Parent organizes co-op for learners; group rallies for in-person school days after benchmarks release
July 13- July 30: Teachers prepare for digital learning and back to school
June 29 – July 12: Video: Gov. says ‘Goal is to get children back to school when it’s safe;’ Schools lay out learning models
June 29: Video: Gov. delays in-person classes to Aug. 17 due to rise in COVID-19
Updates from June 15 – June 29: Video: Gov. pauses re-opening of some businesses as COVID-19 cases rise
June 24: Plan provides more funding, flexible instruction as schools re-open
Updates from May 26 – June 12: Increase in COVID-19 cases marks a new daily high
Updates from May 20 – 25: AZ Dept. of Ed releases COVID-19 guidance to schools for summer programs, back to school
Updates from May 11 – 19: Arizonans consider workplace safety, what back to school will look like amid COVID-19
Updates from April 26 – May 10: Stores re-open, COVID-19 testing blitz resumes on Saturday
Updates from April 8 – 25: You can get tested now if you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
Updates from March 12 – April 7: Coronavirus response: Cases rise; AZ Day of Giving