Hundreds of Chandler teachers stage 'sick out', demanding return to virtual learning
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 24: Dana Dyer teaches an online seventh-grade algebra class from her empty classroom at Walter Johnson Junior High School on the first day of distance learning for the Clark County School District amid the spread of the cor
CHANDLER, Ariz. - Chandler teachers staged a "sick out" on Dec. 11 to call for a return to virtual learning.
Approximately 349 teachers took part, and the absences were filled using substitutes, teacher specialists, counselors and deans. There are 2600 teachers district-wide.
When asked to comment on the reported "sick out," the Chandler Unified School District sent a statement to FOX 10, saying that it's encouraging staff to report to work today in the best interest of students and colleagues. The district also said schools will be open and any absences will be filled with substitute teachers, teacher specialists, counselors, and deans.
The reported sick-out comes after the district voted to temporarily expand virtual learning, allowing seventh-through-12th-graders to continue to learn remotely for the first two weeks after winter break.
Elementary school students would return to campus as planned.
Chandler started the school year remotely in early August and elementary students returned to the classroom in late September amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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