Governor Doug Ducey Announces Arizona Public Schools to Re-Open In-Person Learning

Since March of 2020, the state of Arizona has largely let individual school districts decide their specific protocols for allowing in-person or online modes of instruction. However, the move Wednesday was a move by Ducey and the state of Arizona to make in-person learning a statewide rule. “More than half of Arizona’s schools are open and offering in-person options. More schools need to follow their lead and pave the way for equitable education options for every Arizona student,” Ducey said on Wednesday.
 
While the Department of Education supports the state’s effort to strategically expand in-person learning, Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman warned the order from the Governor’s office may be difficult for school districts who already have instruction and learning models unique to their district and the district’s need. According to the Arizona Republic, she said the order’s timing makes it “challenging” for schools that have plans that match the needs of their local COVID-19 circumstances.
 
Ducey and his administration have made exceptions to in-person learning for schools or districts that report tha high risk of COVID-19 transmission, as defined by Center for Disease Control standards.
 
However, Hoffman does remain committed to opening schools to in-person learning, in a way that is as safe as possible, saying, “As a state, we should be collaborating to provide as much preparation and planning time as possible ahead of significant changes to school operations. To achieve stability for our school communities, it’s necessary to provide them with adequate time to inform and ready their staff, students and families.”
 
As teachers are set to return back to schools, there are concerns regarding teacher vaccinations. While educators, including public school teachers are eligible to receive the vaccine at the moment, the percent of vaccinated teachers in Arizona is unclear.