Important School Notice (November 23rd, 2020)

Dear Wildcat Community,

As you're aware Covid cases have been sharply increasing across the county, state and nation. There have been many questions about how this is impacting the school district and future instructional plans. I would like to take this opportunity to provide a brief update.

First a bright spot - data is demonstrating that schools where safety protocols are followed are one of the safest places in regards to the transmission of Covid. In-door gatherings away from school where masks are not worn continue to be the area of highest transmission. This is important to note as we go into the Thanksgiving Break and the Christmas Holidays.

Currently, Greenlee County is the only county in Arizona where in-person instruction is supported by the state health benchmarks. Schools in Graham and Greenlee Counties as well as many other districts around the state are currently opting for in person instruction. Morenci School District started the year using a distance learning model, transitioned to a hybrid model and is now using an in person learning model. Although distance learning and hybrid models provide necessary alternatives – there is little doubt that student attendance and engagement is much higher when students attend in person. We would like to utilize this model as long as it is safe and practical to do so.

How has Covid impacted Morenci School District? Over the past two months we have had a total of ten staff members test positive for Covid, seven within the schools and three at Wildkitten Den, in the same period we are aware of seven students who have tested positive. Although these are very low numbers – we have had to quarantine a much larger number of staff and students. Typically, these are people who are not sick or exhibiting any symptoms but may have been exposed to Covid at or away from school. Quarantine guidelines require that these students and staff isolate for a period of 14 days. This is frustrating to all concerned - but a safety precaution and necessary.

Morenci School District is committed to providing a safe learning environment. We continue to follow health protocols and are in daily consultation with the Greenlee County Health Department. The tools for preventing Covid haven’t changed - wearing a mask, avoiding close contact (within six feet) with others and washing our hands continue to be the best precautions we can take in or outside of school.

I hope this information is helpful – please feel free to contact the District if you have any questions.

Have a nice Thanksgiving and please be safe.

David Woodall
Superintendent