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Kyrene board adopts instructional time model allowing remote-learning flexibility
Summary
After a public hearing, the board approved the district's instructional time model (required by state statute) to permit approved remote learning and emergency instructional alternatives; students and parents spoke in support during the hearing.
The Kyrene School District governing board voted unanimously June 2 to approve an instructional time model that allows the district to offer approved remote-learning options and credit students for equivalent asynchronous or synchronous instruction in specified circumstances.
Dr. Amy Jin Cho, director of academic equity and excellence, told the board the model is a statutory requirement when a district offers remote learning and explained how attendance is recorded for synchronous log-ins and for work completed asynchronously within a set time window. She described uses including a small number of persistent online students, short-term absences and emergency scenarios (for example, building closure) and said the model is reviewed annually by the state Department of Education.
"Instructional time model is required if a district wishes to offer remote learning," Dr. Cho said, describing the model's mechanisms for attendance and academic credit. She added that the district currently serves a small number of students through Kyrene's online programs, mostly upper-grade students finishing coursework.
During the hearing two students and a parent addressed the board in support. A Mariposa parent said the program offers flexibility that keeps children in public school rather than being pushed to homeschooling, and described positive experiences with teachers and course completion. The board discussed outreach so families and teachers are aware of the option and noted the district must guard against overuse that could jeopardize the model's approval by the Department of Education.
Board president Trina Nelson moved to approve the model for the 2026-27 school year; the motion passed 5-0.
Next steps: the instructional time model will be implemented for the coming school year; district staff said they will produce tools and guidance for school leaders and teachers to use the model appropriately in cases of extended absence, health need or emergency.
