"Our primary concern has remained the health, safety, and welfare of students, families, and educators, as well as the health and safety of the broader community," says AEA President Joe Thomas.
As districts discuss plans for the 2020-2021 school year it is essential that we make decisions based in science and safety. Based on the metrics released today, Arizona is not ready for in-person classroom instruction.
"If Arizona is serious about making our schools safe, then our leaders need to provide districts with the flexibility and funding they need," says Thomas. "Districts must include educators in discussions aimed at providing the best possible education for our students as we confront the challenges posed by COVID-19."
Educators, parents, and students must be assured that when returning to school they will be safe and that schools at a bare minimum follow all CDC guidelines. Until a campus, a worksite, or a classroom can assure educators, students, and parents that they will be safe, it is too great a risk for anyone to enter a school facility.
