CVUSD releases statement regarding 52 teacher absences at Desert Mirage HS

The Coachella Valley Unified School District confirmed to KESQ and CBS Local 2 that 52 teachers were absent at Desert Mirage High School on Wednesday.

Sources close to KESQ and CBS Local 2 said the teachers called out sick. called out sick Wednesday. This is the latest development at the high School as the teacher’s union continues to negotiate a new contract with the Coachella Valley Unified School District.

Coachella Valley Unified School District spokesperson Francinni Zabata confirmed that, “there was an abnormally high amount of teachers that called out sick today at Desert Mirage High School. All classes went on as scheduled, we brought in extra staff and subs to cover the class schedule,” said Zabata.

CVUSD released a statement regarding the teacher absences on Wednesday afternoon:

The Coachella Valley Unified School District experienced a higher number of teacher absences at one of our high schools today. In light of this occurrence, which district administrators are looking at as an anomaly, additional staff and teachers are on hand maintaining normal school operations and class schedules for students. Coachella Valley Unified is committed to maintaining a high quality education program for all students, and will continue to take appropriate measures to ensure minimal disruptions in the classroom.

Dr. Darryl Adams
Superintendent of Schools

Earlier this week we learned that the Student Body Association at Desert Mirage High School decided to cancel Homecoming, which was planned for this Friday. We have since learned since that the Student Association has decided to only postpone the Homecoming dance, and it will name a date sometime in the future.

Some students have told KESQ and CBS Local 2 the Homecoming postponement was made in support of their teachers as the contract negotiations continue.

KESQ and CBS Local 2 will continue to keep you updated as the teacher’s union works to negotiate a new contract with CVUSD.