Tucson Standard

The state of Arizona is continuing to encourage schools to require masks in schools. 

According to the Arizona Department of Education, all Arizona K-12 schools are encouraged to require mask-wearing, regardless of vaccination status. Minimizing the risk of transmission among children varies by county. However, many schools have implemented the Test to Stay (TTS) practice for non-vaccinated learners. In the event of a COVID exposure, TTS allows for continued in-person learning as long as the exposed child tests negative.

"Public schools can and should encourage consistent and correct mask use," according to the Arizona Department of Education. "Under the current state law, a school district or charter may require its students and staff to wear a mask in school or while on other school facilities."

Hart Research Associates recently teamed up with NBC News to conduct a national survey gauging trends related to voters’ opinions on the American political environment and COVID-19 concerns. The survey was conducted from Jan. 14 to 18 and polled 1,000 adults, 790 of whom were registered voters.

It revealed that Americans are divided in their attitudes. According to the survey's findings, 37% of people are very focused on COVID and 31% are moderately focused. Alternatively, 10% of people reported they are not focused on COVID, while 22% reported having a low focus on the virus.

When asked where their concerns lie regarding COVID restrictions in schools, 65% of Americans are more concerned about children falling behind in school, while 30% are more concerned about the spread of COVID.

The Centers for Disease Control continues to strongly encourage indoor masking in K-12 school settings for all students, staff, and visitors, “regardless of vaccination status.”

Apart from vaccination being the leading prevention strategy, the CDC says universal masking remains the second most effective mode of protection against COVID-19 transmission. 

With low vaccination rates among students and staff in some schools, public health officials are working to implement screening testing in addition to physical distancing and masking.

The Arizona Department of Education says Arizona's guidelines are consistent with these recommendations.

"In accordance with the CDC and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), face coverings are recommended and encouraged for all individuals in K12 schools, regardless of vaccination status, according to the Arizona Department of Education. "Consistent and correct mask use by people who are not fully vaccinated is especially important indoors and in crowded settings, when physical distancing cannot be maintained."