Catholic School Campuses Closed and Providing Distance Learning

Catholic School Campuses in the Diocese of Tucson are CLOSED and will Provide Distance Learning Through the End of the School Year

Out of a collective concern for the health and well-being of everyone involved in our Catholic schools, the Superintendent of Catholic Schools has been in consultation with the Principals of Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools, the Bishop of Tucson, Most Rev. Edward J. Weisenburger, and others in senior leadership for the Diocese of Tucson to determine how to best support Catholic schools that serve diverse populations in a variety of regions within the diocese.    Throughout this very fluid, challenging COVID-19 situation, the recommendation has been that Catholic school closings are to be determined locally by each school’s senior leadership.  However, we very strongly urged Catholic schools to follow the recommendations of the state, their individual County Health Department, and/or decisions made by the local public school district in which they are located.  It continues to be our goal that, in this way, the Catholic community would participate fully in a truly community-wide response to Coronavirus issues in general and school campus closings in particular.  With the Governor’s announcement of extending school closures through the end of the school year, it is with a collective unity that our Catholic schools will follow suit and remain closed the remainder of the school year as well.  Be assured that principals are in constant communication with their school community as they support their teachers in providing distance learning at every grade level.  Our collective focus continues to be on safety, peace of mind, and continuity of formation – both academically and spiritually.  On behalf of our Catholic schools, we extend special gratitude to the parents and guardians of our approximately 6800 students whose partnership we especially rely upon as they continue to support their children’s at-home learning as well as their school’s dedication to provide ongoing instruction and resources.  We are truly all in this together as a Christ-centered community!

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Governor Ducey, Superintendent Hoffman Announce Extension Of School Closures Through End Of School Year

March 30, 2020

Governor Doug Ducey and Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman today announced the extension of Arizona school closures through the end of the school year. The extension follows updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and an announcement from the White House extending physical distancing guidelines until April 30, 2020. 

Governor Ducey and Superintendent Hoffman released the following joint statement:

“In alignment with yesterday’s updated federal guidance, today we are announcing the extension of school closures through the remainder of the school year. Today’s announcement is intended to give parents and educators as much certainty as possible so they can plan and make decisions. While this isn’t the outcome any of us wanted, we are grateful for the partnership of schools around the state, who have stepped up to offer virtual and take-home learning opportunities for our students. These efforts are crucial, and we recognize that schools are making every effort possible to continue providing instruction during closures. We also thank our legislative partners for passing legislation ensuring all educators and staff see no disruption in pay. Our number one priority will continue to be health and safety, and we will continue to work closely with public health officials to make the best decisions for kids, families, and our school communities.”

Today’s announcement applies to Arizona public schools, both district and charter. Private schools are required to remain closed in alignment with federal guidance recommending closures through at least April 30, 2020. School leaders have the option of announcing closures through the end of the year, or waiting for additional guidance.