Arizona Gov. Ducey orders schools to reopen by mid-March despite some concerns

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey issued an executive order Wednesday requiring in-class learning to resume across the state by mid-March, the governor’s office announced. 

Of the 15 Arizona counties, 12 have lowered coronavirus case numbers enough to make reopening schools safe, the governor’s release said. The three counties with high rates of transmission, "as defined by the CDC," are Coconino, Yavapai and Pinal. "The CDC and numerous health officials have said time and time again that schools are safe and kids can go back to the classroom," Ducey said. "We prioritized teachers in our vaccine distribution, and many have already received their second dose. The science is clear: It’s time all kids have the option to return to school so they can get back on track and we can close the achievement gap."