PHOENIX – On Friday, May 1st, Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman convened the first meeting of a diverse set of stakeholders to discuss the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 academic year. This task force will work together to develop guidelines for how schools can safely resume operations in the coming months.
“While it is impossible to predict the future of this virus and what our public health situation may look like in July or August, teachers and schools must have a roadmap in order to safely plan for different contingencies,” said Superintendent Hoffman. “This group is committed to supporting students, educators, families, and school leaders as we navigate the on-going COVID-19 situation together.”
The task force is working closely with the Arizona State Board of Education, the Arizona Department of Health Services, and the Governor’s office. It is comprised of educators, principals, school nurses, superintendents, charter organization leaders, and education stakeholder groups, along with input from parents.
The group will first develop guidance and identify which essential supports will be needed for the 2020-2021 school year, with its initial guidance to be completed by the end of this month. The group will also focus on recovery planning, tracking schools’ on-going needs, and strengthening infrastructure for distance learning – with a focus on the equitable allocation of technological resources.
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