Items

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  2020-10-16

  School Finance Guidance for COVID-19

  Arizona Department of Education fiscal information and guidance pertaining to attendance and absences while students participate in distance learning. The guidance page also includes links to important forms, school finance reports, and other valuable external resources. According to the report, the due date for a financial plan (Budget/AFR) is November 13, 2020. The name of the file is, "Distance Learning Report -Actual". No recent updates appear to have been made.
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  2020-10-16

  Distance Learning Submission- FY2021

  Arizona Department of Education authorizes distance learning with the passage of Executive Orders 2020-41, 2020-44, 2020-51. Students that are participating in online instruction "...shall be treated as pupils participating in Arizona Online Instruction for funding purposes." In this context, COVID-19 has impacted, on an economic level, the fabric of everyday life- down to gathering statistical data and reporting student attendance for online education for the purpose of funding virtual education, not brick-and-mortar institutions.
• 
  2021-04-11

  How effective was Gov. Ducey's Order to Reopen Schools?

  On March 11, 2021, the Arizona State Health Department reported seven counties, including Maricopa, were coded as "substantial transmission rate", however, this rate is technically one level under the serious risk categories. The remaining counties (six) were deemed "moderate" and were set to reopen by March 15. The NPR article argues about the irrelevancy of the order because more than half of the schools in the county are offering some form of in-person instruction, this order didn't change much for that particular school. For some schools, Osborn and Cartwright, the order actually sped their reopening date. In the Osborn case, school officials pushed for reopening because they confirmed that more than half of their teachers had been vaccinated. In places like Coconino and Pinal counties where transmission levels are exceedingly high, the school districts are exempt from reopening. Again, the effectiveness of the March 15th executive order is questionable at best.
• 
  2021-04-10

  CDC Science Brief: Transmission of COVID-19 in K-12 schools

  (updated March 19, 2021) CDC report on scientific findings in terms of COVID-19, children, adolescents, and the unlikely transmission potential among these two groups (18 or younger). The experiences of other countries opening at various points during the pandemic contribute to the knowledge laid out in the report. One example of a recommended prevention strategy, physical distancing, is explained as a determining factor in preventing transmission. Yet, as the research shows, the prescribed 6-foot distance is less of a stress point when observing children and adolescents. In other words, several US studies have found low transmission rates when children are separated less than 6 feet. The same applies to children and adult interactions.
• 
  2021-04-10

  Children, School, and COVID-19

  This article, from The Atlantic, analyzes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assertion that adequate ventilation, proper face coverings, and social distancing in schools will prevent transmission and a surge in COVID-19. The CDCs argument, which the author of the article fully supports, bases their support for in-person instruction on the "preponderance of available evidence," which includes both US studies and European. According to the CDC, people under 18, and young children especially, are less likely to infection and less likely to suffer severe symptoms. Moreover, one comprehensive plan to return children to the class includes access to vaccinations, high-quality scientific information, and strict COVID protocols.
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  2021-03-16

  Student enrollment is declining...where have Arizona Students gone?

  This article highlights the declining enrollments of students in Arizona and their absence, so too does the funding disappear. According to the featured article, the combination of an approximate loss of 10% percent of the student population coupled with a drastic cut in the funding levels has significantly impacted the financial operations and organization of public school districts. The enrollment loss is mostly concentrated on the elementary levels, yet a notable loss of enrollment in high schools is of some concern. Declining enrollment not only affects the students' ability to develop important critical thinking and life skills, but in-person instruction should aid the student in recognizing the workload that comes with advanced degrees and education. Another option offers students the ability to learn through the hybrid instructional model.
• 
  2021-03-15

  Arizona Schools are Open (Mostly...)

  Per Governor Doug Ducey's executive order which mandates all schools to reopen for in-person instruction by March 15th or "after spring break." As the article makes clear, most will be in person by the 15th, yet many schools still remain in the "high exposure" and therefore cannot open safely. The Arizona Department of Education is still in discussion with school leaders and health officials to implement the practices to ensure a successful reopening.
• 
  2021-03-14

  Reopening Plans for Arizona Schools

  A comprehensive list of Arizona districts or charters and their respective reopening plans. Districts/charters are further subdivided into schools. Additionally, the COVID-19 district dashboard assists the public with updates concerning exposures and outbreaks which is located on the COVID-19 district dashboard.
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  2021-03-15

  "Phoenix-area school districts alter plans as COVID-19 cases decrease"

  (48) K-12 Arizona school districts list their respective plans the return no later date than March 15th, 2021 or after the district's Spring break ends. This story coincides with the mandate issued by Governor Doug Ducey on February 12, 2021- which calls on Arizona districts to prepare for in-person instruction.
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  2021-01-26

  Journal of American Medical Association Data and Policy for School Opening

  The article references numerous case studies and research which suggest that transmission between students should not be a determining factor in postponing in-person instruction. External factors (i.e. local communities) are analysis in the article to offer another perspective about the dangers of students in the classroom. The article does provide recommendations to mitigate the spread of the virus between students, teachers, and staff.
• 
  2021-02-12

  "Open for In-Person Learning" State of Arizona Executive Order 2021-04

  On February 12, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance on COVID-19 as it relates to the "re-opening" of schools for in-person instruction. From the office of Governor Doug Ducey, Executive Order 2021-04 provides instruction for the Arizona Department of Education to follow in each district in the state of Arizona.
• 
  2020-12-11

  Big Business in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic

  (Undisclosed location and business name to protect employee) I happened to be working on this day when operations in the warehouse were shut down and we were asked to leave until the warehouse was thoroughly disinfected. Note the absence of employees on the floor, however, the merchandise is palletized according to shipping destination. Two days later, management, administrative staff, and warehouse associates were permitted to enter the building and business resumed as usual except with new health regulations all employees and staff were mandated to follow.
• 
  2021-03-06

  My favorite food! The Texas and Arizona connection

  Traveling during the COVID-19 has become increasingly difficult due to restrictions, precautionary safety measures, and social isolation. I am a Texas native who is currently residing in Phoenix, Arizona. Sadly, It has been well over 2 years since I have been back home to visit, but my Aunt -who has been vaccinated- periodically decides to make a trip to Phoenix. Every time she visits she is kind enough to bring along frozen portions from my favorite restaurant- Chicos Tacos. Sharing a meal with my Aunt and relatives is a special memory I will treasure despite this incredibly difficult time.
• 
  2021-02-16

  "The Nation of Islam, Caring for the Black Body, and Vaccine Hesitancy"

  The history of the Nation of Islam and its resistance to traditional American medical practices adds critical context to explain why some African Americans do not want to COVID vaccine.
• 
  2021-02-22

  "African/African Ancestry Health and Heritage Month Virtual Celebration: Black Family Day"

  Repost via Twitter @COVID19Black. Santa Clara County Public Health is hosting a virtual celebration for Black Family Day on Sunday, February 28, 2021 (11:00 AM- 2:00 PM) zoom link provided: http://BIT.LY/FAMILY_DAY2021
• 
  2020-09-10

  Documenting the Experiences of Black America during the COVID-19 Pandemic

  This story, from the Harvard Gazette, features the work of two friends -Tracie Jones & Sarah DeMott- as they try to curate the experiences of black Americans during the coronavirus pandemic. Their collective effort resulted in Black America and COVID-19; a library guide that seeks to serve as a historical database for stories about the impact of the pandemic on African American communities. Information and material included in the database ranges from oral histories, podcasts, blogs, and links to webinars.
• 
  02/21/2021

  Isabel Peralta Oral History, 2021/02/21

  I recorded a mini oral history with my Tia (aunt) about silver linings.
• 
  2020-05-15

  "PCSing in the time of COVID-19: Four families share their stories"

  This story follows four military families as they prepare for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. The process is further complicated due to COVID-19 restrictions. Each family shares how they had to adjust routine travel plans; taking into account state-by-state orders as well as trying to navigate schooling for children. While PCS orders are a reality of all military members, during 2020 there were significant changes delivered by the Department of Defense.
• 
  2021-01-24

  Despite mistrust, Native Americans' participation in vaccine development proves vital

  The story details how the Navajo Nation is fighting back against COVID-19. In particular, an indigenous healer, Timothy Lewis, volunteers in a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine trial.
• 
  2021-01-24

  Navajo Nation COVID vaccine rolls out for elder population

  Tséhootsooí Medical Center hosts drive-thru COVID-19 vaccine event. Elderly residents, 75 and older, of the Navajo Nation (Fort Defiance), are given the COVID-19 vaccine at Tséhootsooí Medical Center
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  2021-01-24

  Doctor On What It's Like To Fight The Coronavirus On The Navajo Nation

  Interview between NPRs' Ari Shapiro and Chief Medical Officer of Indian Health Services, Dr. Loretta Christensen. Dr. Chirstensen discusses some of the challenges in covering an expansive area which includes Arizona, Utah, New Mexico.
• 2021-01-22

  Vaccine Story: Phoenix educator is hoping for a safe return to the classroom

  Kristina Erickson, a seventh-year Phoenix educator, received her initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer) just after midnight on January 13, 2021. Ms. Erickson describes her experience as both exciting and nerve-wracking during and after her visit to the State Farm immunization station. She states that the process was surprisingly organized, despite the long line of cars awaiting their appointment. During our interview, Ms. Erickson was forthcoming about her decision to get the vaccine. She said, "I really want to get back into the classroom. If I can meet CDC guidelines so I can see my kids again, I'll do it!" On February 5th, Kristina will be returning for her second and final dose.
• 
  2021-01-21

  Navajo Nation in Phase 1B of COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan (updated Jan. 21, 2021)

  (KRQE) Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez urges the Federal government to continue the distribution of COVID vaccine to the Navajo Nation. Until then, the vaccine distribution plan will proceed into the next phase- focusing its efforts to provide vaccines to those who are 65 or older. According to Nez, over 70 percent of the vaccines issued by the Federal government have already been administered to the Navajo people.
• 
  2021-01-22

  Navajo Nation COVID-19 Vaccine

  Navajo Department of Health directive on Vaccine roll-out.
• 2021-01-17

  Think Big, Dream Big

  As of January 12, 2021, I began my final semester as an undergraduate at Arizona State University. Four wonderful years consisting of academic rigor, late-nights, and wrestling with the not so smooth transition to online courses. Admittedly, I still have reservations about online instruction; though, I am warming up to the idea and have had success so far in staying engaged and enthusiastic about learning. With that being said, my immediate goal for the year 2021 is to continue my education and pursue a Master's in History here at ASU. At this crucial juncture in my academic career, I have spoken about it over the past year to my close friends, family, and personal mentors, that the idea of not applying would be a step in the wrong direction. I believe I am ready for all the challenges and opportunities that come with an advanced degree. And so, over the coming months, I will continue to establish vital connections, build upon my existing support groups, and plan on starting Fall 2021 at ASU as a graduate student. Thinking of a future after 2021 has also frequently crossed my mind. I have two prospective PhD programs in mind, but I hope to add more to the list. -Solidarity
• 
  2021-01-16

  Year of the Bibliophile

  Throughout the pandemic, I have committed myself to read something every day, for a minimum of 30 minutes. Whether I am reading opt eds from the Jacobin (my favorite news source), researching academic and scholarly articles, or just immersing myself in a really great work of fiction, I have enjoyed the challenge immensely! I am also here to make the case that reading can be done virtually anywhere. Now, take a moment to consider how you can take full advantage of your busy life to get some reading done. A fifteen-minute break at work, an audiobook during rush hour, perhaps some light reading before bed? Active and mindful reading has not only improved my reading comprehension, but on a more simplistic level; it is a great conversation starter for people who love reading. Finding connection through literature during these trying times has been such a saving grace for me, and I am confident it can do the same for you. -Solidarity
• 0020-11-25

  Isolation, in Nature, Has its Tremendous Benefits

  It is hard to imagine that just a couple of months before this photo was taken, several life-altering events occurred in my life, and indeed, in the lives of millions worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as early as December 2019, initial reports circulated about a "mysterious Coronavirus-related Pneumonia" apparently originating from the province in Wuhan, China. By January 31, 2020, the WHO issued a global health emergency urging the international community to take all necessary precautions to slow the virus's spread and minimize human-to-human contact. Mandatory mask-wearing, obsessive handwashing, and social distancing became customary parts of daily life for virtually everyone. Yet, despite strict health guidelines from the Center for Disease and Control (CDC) intended to keep communities safe, I argue that social distancing has also exacerbated instances of loneliness and depression. Families who count on holiday visits from extended family now contemplate rescheduling, modifying, or altogether canceling holiday gatherings. I personally experienced some setbacks and hardships throughout the year, so the idea of not seeing my family did not sit well with me. Fortunately, my better judgment prevailed, and I abided by CDC travel recommendations. During the 2020 holiday season, I found my outlet and my connection to the land. Yes, technically, traveling is somewhat tricky at the moment. However, home mandates -in my opinion- should not discourage you from sitting outside, breathing good air, and feeling the warmth of the sun. For me, social isolation became about packing a day bag and trekking into the woods-completely alone. And so, I decided to explore Camp Verde on Thanksgiving. This is what I learned: It shouldn't take a holiday as the reason for you to call your loved ones more often or appreciate the people you interact with daily. Humans are social creatures. We thrive on human interaction. So when we are deprived, I firmly believe we should seek nature as our companion. Please do yourself a favor and take advantage of this time to spend more time outside. Explore your surroundings and have a great time throughout the process. -Solidarity