Dozens of schools across Arizona closed for a day after a significant number of teachers and staff called in sick at the same time, leaving districts unable to meet basic staffing needs. The closures coincided with organized political protests, prompting concerns from state education leaders about the use of sick leave for activism.
“Shutting down schools through coordinated sick-outs is unacceptable,” said Chairman Gress. “Students lost a full day of learning, parents were forced to scramble for childcare, and families paid the price for political tactics that do not belong in public education.”
Gress also stated, “Public school districts exist to educate students, not serve political movements. When educators walk out, children are left behind. Parents expect schools to be open, dependable, and focused on teaching, and that expectation was violated.”
Senate Education Chairman Hildy Angius commented on the issue by saying the closures revealed problems with accountability in district systems and expressed concern about disrupting students’ education for political reasons.
“Parents send their children to school expecting stability and instruction, not sudden closures driven by organized protests,” Chairman Angius said. “Using sick leave to shut down campuses crosses a line and undermines trust in public schools.”
Both Chairmen Gress and Angius indicated that legislation is being developed to prevent similar incidents in the future and establish consequences when schools close due to coordinated political actions. More information will be shared once the proposed legislation is introduced.
Angius concluded, “Arizona students deserve classrooms that stay open and leaders who put education first. We intend to act.”
Carbone, a Republican elected in 2023 to represent Arizona’s 25th House District, replaced former representative Michelle Udall.
