Gov. Doug Ducey has ordered schools in Arizona to return to in-person instruction by March 15 or after spring break.
According to the governor’s office, 12 of Arizona’s 15 counties have COVID-19 transmission rates that have fallen to levels the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers safe for reopening. Middle and high schools in counties with high transmission rates are exempt from the order. They include Coconino, Yavapai and Pinal counties.
State officials prioritized teachers and school staff for vaccinations and Ducey’s office says many have now received their second doses. The governor ordered schools in the state closed last March amid the worsening pandemic. He says half of Arizona's districts have already returned to in-person classes.
The Flagstaff Unified School District Governing Board has voted to begin a phased return the week of March 22 after spring break.
