Dysart Unified School District officials discussed local COVID-19 metrics and their impact on the district for more than 90 minutes during its most recent board meeting, but is opting to not change anything.
Board members and staff, however, did not discuss during its Wednesday, Dec. 9, meeting anything regarding starting the second semester offering only virtual learning because the sharp increase in cases Valley-wide. DUSD Public Relations Director Renee Ryon stated in an email interview Dec. 11 the district follows the guidance from the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
The county uses three benchmarks, two of which — cases Per 100,000 People (328.11) and Percent Positivity (13.99%) — are in the red category indicating the risk level is substantial and the district is recommended to prepare for virtual learning with on-site support. The third metric, percent of COVID-like illnesses (9.10%) is in the moderate zone.
