School leaders work to keep educating students during closure
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Yuma County school officials face a dilemma in the face of the coronavirus outbreak - how to keep educating student without keeping them in the classroom.
On Sunday, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey and state school superintendent Kathy Hoffman ordered the closure of all schools in Arizona until March 27.
Now Yuma County administrators and educators alike are looking for a new strategy for completing the school year.
“The discussion of learning has been talked about in the school districts. I think what you’re going to see is some sort of an online type of learning situation,” explained Thomas Tyree, Yuma County superintendent.
All local school superintendents came together Monday to brainstorm about how to keep kids' minds engaged while they can't come to school. Technology could bridge the gap.
Tyree tells us every student in the county already has access to the tech they need to access online learning tools. However, getting the lessons takes more than a tablet.
"Even if you have a device, what is your access to the internet? Some people may not have internet access or they might have internet but they may not have the infrastructure to connect with the school district, so I think we’re going to have to figure some of those things out,” explained Tyree.
As far as state standardized testing, Tyree explained that nothing has been legislated or decided at this point; however, it has been proposed that State testing be suspended for the year.
Tyree added this is a process that will have to go through the State Legislature and then make its way to the Federal government for approval.
Educators also want to make sure their students are fed. News 11's Carmen Valencia is taking a closer look at how the school districts are solving that potential problem.
[Related story: Yuma schools provide meals during school closures]
At this time , school superintendents tell us, it's an evolving situation. They will continue to work with the Yuma County Health District and make decisions based on what's best for the health and welfare of their students.
He added leaders are trying to be as proactive as possible by planning for any contingency that may come.
Stay with News 11, CBS 13, and KYMA.com for continuing coverage of the coronavirus outbreak both on-air and online.
