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J.O. Combs Unified School District announces plans to reopen schools

Posted 6/30/20

The J.O. Combs Unified School District has released its plans regarding the reopening of schools for the 2020-21 school year.

Among the details included in the district's "Pandemic Response Plan" …

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J.O. Combs Unified School District announces plans to reopen schools

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The J.O. Combs Unified School District has released its plans regarding the reopening of schools for the 2020-21 school year.

Among the details included in the district's "Pandemic Response Plan" are the options for student learning --- virtual or in-person; an overview of additional health and safety measures; and information regarding transportation, meal service and childcare, according to a release.

"As we've developed these plans over the last several weeks, the health and safety of our students and staff continues to be paramount," Dr. Greg Wyman, superintendent, said in the release. "We anticipate that as the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve, as will our response to ensure we're continuing to provide a safe learning and working environment for our community."

Decisions outlined in the plan include:

  • Providing families with the option of in-person or virtual learning for their student. Families will have the ability to change their selected option throughout the year. Details and instructions on how to make this selection will be shared via email on July 9.
  • Delaying the start of in-person instruction until Aug. 17 per Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey’s executive order. Virtual learning may be made available prior to this date, but details will be shared following the approval of a modified calendar at the July 8 Governing Board meeting.
  • Additional health and safety measures to include social distancing, daily temperature checks, encouraged masks and increased sanitization for those who do attend in-person.

"We know the last several months have been challenging, and that many of our families continue to face uncertainty and questions regarding the safe return to school," Dr. Wyman said in the release. "For this reason, we are pleased to announce two options for families for the upcoming year. This will ensure consistency and quality in instruction, while also empowering parents and students to have flexibility when selecting an option that best serves their needs and comfort level."

In developing the plan, the district conducted a survey collecting feedback from nearly 3,000 families, as well as compiled recommendations from health and government officials to ultimately prioritize the health and safety of students, staff and community.

In addition to the Pandemic Response Plan, the district has released a snapshot summary of the document, in addition to launching a web page that houses all relevant updates regarding the safe and healthy return to school.

For more information about the J.O. Combs Unified School District and its plans for a safe and healthy return to school, call 480-987-5300 or go to  jocombs.org/returntoschool.