Across Arizona, public educators know how to help their students succeed, but they often think they can’t make meaningful change without permission from the state. Permission Granted, a new tool co-developed by NAU’s Arizona Institute for Education and the Economy, aims to show schools there’s more flexibility than they think—and they can use it to their advantage to adjust bell schedules, launch career-readiness initiatives and more.
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — Please join CCC&Y for its
next Prevention Council Zoom meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 5. Our next guest speaker will be Brandy Stuhan, Coconino County Youth Behavioral Health Center Clinical Director.
Our meetings provide our coalition partners with the opportunity to share the latest news about their projects that support children, youth and their families in Northern Arizona.
The Council meets the first Thursday of the month.
Want to be a guest speaker at our next meeting? Send an email to CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie at coalition@coconinokids.org to be placed on the agenda or to receive a Zoom link to our next meeting.
READ MORE
The Flagstaff Festival of Science proudly announces its 2026 theme, “Driven by Curiosity,” celebrating the exploration and innovation that propel discovery and shape our world. The 10-day festival will run September 25 – October 4, 2026, bringing together scientists, educators, students, and lifelong learners for engaging programs across Flagstaff and beyond.
The Festival will open on September 25 with the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation in NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium by technology leader Kirk Dunsavage, whose talk explores the intersection of science, engineering, and the human spirit of exploration.
March 7-28, 2026
Youth Arts Exhibition Opening Reception March 7, 4-8 pm
Youth Talent Showcase CCA Theater March 7, 5-7 pm
This year’s exhibition features a record number of 510 pieces by over 300 regional youth artists!!
Coconino Center for the Arts’ 2026 Youth Arts Exhibition invites local youth artists from Coconino County and the regional community to exhibit their recent artwork at CCA. The exhibition is open to and inclusive of all artwork submissions by youth artists, Pre-K to 12th grade, that reflect the theme From Ordinary to Extraordinary.
From first cue to final bow, Jacks take the lead
Students in NAU’s theater program don’t just perform—they also produce. Every theater production runs entirely on student power, with Lumberjacks stepping into the spotlight, building sets, programming lights, mixing sound, patching costumes, promoting shows and managing the chaos. It’s all about teamwork, community and hands-on learning.
Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget proudly recognizes these exceptional teachers for their passion, innovation and unwavering commitment to students and their communities.
The winners will be revealed at the 13th Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards on Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff — an evening dedicated to celebrating the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of Coconino County students.
FLAGSTAFF — Dive into the rich and diverse stories of the Latino communities — Mexican, Basque, Spanish, Chicano — that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of Flagstaff. This interactive course offers a dynamic introduction to the people, traditions, industries, and historic sites that have played a vital role in the city’s development.
From prominent families and community celebrations to hidden histories and cultural legacies, you’ll uncover the often-overlooked contributions that continue to define the beauty, strength, and spirit of Flagstaff. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong resident, this journey through local heritage will deepen your connection to the city and its multicultural roots.
Upcoming Classes Writing and Renewal Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 1:30 to 3 p.m. Through writing prompts, the group will reflect, renew, share stories, and enhance their creativity. Seasoned and beginning writers alike are welcome! Writing – Learn…
FLAGSTAFF — Join Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) for a film screening of A Song for Cesar! The film aims to educate generations old and new about civil rights activist Cesar Chavez’s legacy of impactful, peaceful protest.
The inaugural Cesar Chavez Film Screening will be held on Monday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Coconino Center for the Arts.
A Song for Cesar, a documentary film by Abel Sanchez and Andres Alegria, presents a unique view of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and the farmworker movement.
Join us in the celebration Mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel as we honor one hundred years of faith, devotion, and community. Through scripture, gospel, and uplifting hymns, we celebrate the enduring love for Nuestra Virgen de Guadalupe and the Chapel that has been a safe haven for generations. We remember with gratitude the founding families whose dedication built this Chapel and whose legacy continues to inspire us today. This joyful Mass celebrates a century of shared faith and the blessings that unite our community
Click below for the latest news updates from the:
Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes
Spring Operational Changes Begin March 1
As spring break approaches, visitors and park residents should be prepared for long lines and full parking lots. Traffic congestion at the South Entrance Station is heaviest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking lots near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center will begin to fill by noon. The South Entrance webcam (updated every five minutes) continues to be a great way to monitor traffic.
LIMITED SEATS: Sunday, March 1, 7:30 pm
One of Canada’s finest artists, Bruce Cockburn has enjoyed an illustrious career shaped by politics, spirituality, and musical diversity. The Ottawa-born artist remains deeply respected for his activism on issues from native rights and land mines to the environment and Third World debt, working for organizations such as Oxfam, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and Friends of the Earth.
VIDEO: The canoe bug hypothesis
Jut Wynne, assistant research professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, set sail on a 1,700-nautical-mile voyage across the South Pacific in search of new species of invertebrates that could help timestamp the movements of early Polynesians across the islands. Watch his journey and find out what he discovered.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — While summer seems far away, it’s time for families to start checking out potential summer camp programs in Coconino County.
The following is a listing compiled by CCC&Y. Contact individual programs for more information on their 2026 summer camps.
Please check with individual organizations to confirm times, dates, other information. Please visit the links below to see if registration is still available. Registration deadlines may have already passed for some programs.
If your organization would like to be added to this listing, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org
READ MORE
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
Get ready to set the stage for an unforgettable summer! Theatrikos Education is thrilled to announce our 2026 Summer Camp season, a vibrant lineup designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and foster lifelong friendships. From the magic of fairytale storytelling and the high energy of Broadway hits to the technical artistry of makeup and puppetry, there is a spotlight waiting for every young performer in Flagstaff. Whether your student is a seasoned regular or stepping onto the stage for the first time, join us for a season of growth, collaboration, and theatrical wonder!
Shaping the world one sound at a time
Jordan Strohmeyer is exploring how audio shapes our world. Through the Lumberjacks Thrive Externship program, he has made connections and gained an inside look at what the industry he wants to explore after graduation is like, finding inspiration at the intersection of art and science.
We’re thrilled to announce that Culture Connection AZ is relaunching our beloved Culture Kitchen program — live and in person!
Join us on Sunday, March 22 at 11:00 AM at Shift Kitchen & Bar (107 N. San Francisco St.) for a delicious and hands-on culinary experience.
Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. “Flag Happs” is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights of the week.
FLAGSTAFF — We’re hiring a Library Director to lead the City of Flagstaff’s library system and the Coconino County Library District.
This full-time executive leadership role oversees multiple city and county branches, supervises senior staff, directs budgeting and strategic planning, manages IT and collections, and serves as a key liaison to City Council, the County Board of Supervisors and community partners. The position plays a critical role in ensuring our libraries continue to meet the informational, cultural and educational needs of our region.
VIDEO: Run like a girl
Looking to swing your axe of service this year? Local nonprofit organization Girls on the Run is looking for coaches who can help teach perseverance, inner and outer strength and the joy of physical activity to girls in third through eighth grade. Watch a video to learn more about Girls on the Run, then visit NAU’s Axe of Service website to get involved.
Winter Weather Update for Residents and Employees
Hello, winter! Yesterday’s winter storm brought 3-4 inches of fresh snow to the South Rim. As of this afternoon,Desert View Drive remains closed due to icy road conditions and is likely to remain closed for the remainder of the day on Feb. 19 due to incoming predicted snowfall. As of this morning, admin travel for Desert View Drive has been lifted—however, roads remain icy and snow-packed. For the latest road status updates, call the park roads line at 928-638-7496.
I’m excited to share that the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona has launched a refreshed website at econa-az.com, and I invite you to take a look.
This new site was built with you in mind. Whether you are a partner in our region’s growth, a business exploring expansion opportunities, or site selector looking for a home for your company, we wanted to make it easier to find what you need, and show why northern Arizona is a smart place to do business.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.
The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.
When you become a member of CCC&Y, your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.
Each week, the Coalition produces a weekly newsletter where we share partner news and events in our blog section and links to community resource meetings.
READ MORE
The Flagstaff Festival of Science announces a new opportunity to join our passionate team! We strive towards excellence in community engagement, creating opportunities for lifelong learning, all the while celebrating science in Flagstaff.
Check out the position description and apply today!
The Program Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all programmatic components of the Flagstaff Festival of Science’s annual 10-day science festival and related initiatives.
Key tasks include:
Join us for a night of celebration, reflection, and school-spirit–level pride as we honor the individuals and organizations who have helped shape our community and move it forward. Think: a reunion with purpose, a celebration of growth, and a reminder of just how far we’ve come—together.
February is ‘Love of Reading’ month, and it’s a celebration that is close to our hearts here at United Way of Northern Arizona. Literacy is key to our work supporting early childhood development and – fueled by your generosity – we help instill that love of reading every day.
For the Dorsey 5, being a Lumberjack is in their blood. From 2017 to 2023, Justin, Brandon, Brittni, Khalil and Tommie have graduated from NAU, creating a legacy of excellence—three were student-athletes (Khalil is now a cornerback for the Detroit Lions), and Brittni earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn how they’re continuing that legacy as alums.
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Office proudly celebrates the outstanding young scholars who competed in the 2026 Coconino County Spelling Bee, an inspiring showcase of academic excellence, perseverance and the power of learning.
Cheryl Mango-Paget, Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, is thrilled to announce this year’s champions:
• First Place: Erin Ebers, Mount Elden Middle School
• Second Place: Tyla Hoffa, Maine Consolidated Schools
• Third Place: Saneela Mirza, DeMiguel Elementary School
Dear Museum Friends,
As we move into the new year, I’d like to share why becoming a member of the Museum of Northern Arizona means a deeper connection to the Colorado Plateau you love, as well as belonging to a community of people who share that interest.
Members enjoy all that MNA has to offer with free year-round general admission to the Museum, early access to exhibitions and events, invitations to member-only experiences, and discounts on select programs and in the Museum Gift Shop. Some membership levels also include reciprocal admission to cultural institutions across the U.S. and Canada through the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association—an especially valuable perk for frequent travelers and museum lovers.
Register NOW for Upcoming Programs
Teaching High School in a Time of Polycrisis
begins Feb. 22nd
“How Tyranny Works”
begins March 1st
“Surveillance, Privacy, & Democracy
begins March 31st
Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower
begins April 4th
Introducing the Maria and Steve Sanghi
College of Nursing
NAU announced today that it has named its College of Nursing the Maria and Steve Sanghi College of Nursing in recognition of a recent gift from the longtime NAU supporters. The investment will strengthen nursing education, expand student and faculty support and help address Arizona’s critical nursing workforce shortage.
STEM City is now accepting nominations for the STEMMY Awards, honoring individuals and organizations who help STEM thrive in Flagstaff. From innovative classrooms and inspiring students to dedicated teachers, businesses, and community partners, the STEMMY Awards shine a spotlight on the people who make STEM possible in Flagstaff. Help us celebrate the changemakers who spark curiosity, creativity, and connection through STEM—submit a nomination today!
COCONINO COUNTY — Registration is open for community partners to table at the “Full STEAM Ahead!” Flagstaff Early Childhood Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at W. F. Killip Elementary School.
In celebration of the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s “Week of the Young Child,” https://www.azaeyc.org/connect/woyc/, we invite you to participate in the fair.
Please click here to complete this application to participate as a vendor. Each vendor must provide an interactive activity related to S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). Vendors set up at 8:30 a.m.
Applications are due by 03/30/26. You may direct any questions to kfarretta@azhs.gov We look forward to your participation in this community event.
Get ready to create and explore with Flagstaff’s premier arts educators at Coconino Center for the Arts!
CCA is thrilled to offer Creative Camps, a way for children ages 5-11 to immerse themselves in the arts, with professional arts educators guiding their experience.
2026 Camp Season
BARKING NEWS: At CHS, the dogtor is in
Do you need a moment to decompress? Is life getting a little ruff? We have an important pupdate: High Country Humane and Health Promotion have once again pawrtnered to bring puppies to campus for a little cuddle time. Come to the Health and Learning Center every other Wednesday, where you can sit, stay and play. (And won’t somebody boop that snout already?) It’s a paws-itively perfect way to spend an afternoon.
This year’s Primary Election will take place on July 21, 2026. The move was needed to allow elections officials more time to conduct elections preparations for the general election, including ensuring that military and overseas voters have their ballots in time to participate.
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
Recreation Program Catalog
The 2026 Recreation Program Catalog (January – June) is now online! Register for upcoming programs and sessions. There are various classes listed including beginner and intermediate archery clinics, culinary classes, disc golf clinics, and the popular youth summer camp, Fun at the Fort.
It’s the final week of FORE! open play, with tee times wrapping up on February 14th at 5:30 pm. Play your tee time, then keep the date night going with live music from Mama’s Broke at 7:30 pm: a unique folk duo that interweaves age-old musical forms and traditions with original modern compositions.
Check out the exhibition, get a little competitive with FORE! and end the night with live music! Save your spots below.
FLAGSTAFF — Redemption Counseling Center has announced it is providing bilingual counseling services at 3009 N. West St. Flagstaff.
“At RCC, we are committed to making therapeutic help accessible to all,” said Brianna Snow, LAC. “Our team of Spanish speaking therapists are qualified to work with individuals, couples and families, of all ages. We also have a voucher program available at the moment to help ease any financial barriers.”
Park Moves to Stage 1 Water Restrictions
Good news! Grand Canyon National Park has moved to Stage 1 water restrictions after improved reservoir tank levels. While this shift allows for normal operations, conserving water is still important. All employees, residents, and visitors are asked to continue using water wisely.
We are proud to announce the 2026 National Theatre Live Series at Theatrikos, featuring a powerful lineup of acclaimed productions recorded live from London’s National Theatre and shared with our community here in Flagstaff. These screenings invite audiences to experience extraordinary performances and timeless stories in a setting designed for connection, conversation, and shared discovery.
We have so much going on this month, I am going to jump right in….
First, Vision + Sound: An African American Experience opens TONIGHT, Friday, February 6 at Celebrate Sedona from 4-6PM. Since the weather will be GREAT, we will be outside. The band, Just Common, is performing and artist, Isse Maloi, is demonstrating. As usual, we will have beer, wine and water for sale as well as some light hors d’oeuvres to munch on.
One of the biggest mysteries of the Grand Canyon is how exactly water gets from the surface into the springs. We know the basics—it snows on the Kaibab Plateau, the snow melts into sinkholes and the water comes roaring out of springs below the North Rim. But what does the journey from the sinkholes through thousands of feet of rock look like? Researchers at NAU are mapping the area to find the answer.
At the Museum of Northern Arizona, we care deeply about creating a meaningful experience for you, our community, and our visitors.
But we need your help. We want to better understand our visitors’ needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.
To do this, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers sponsored by the American Alliance of Museums. This survey provides data from our visitors and visitors to museums nationwide, helping us be more effective in the coming months and in the communities we serve.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — As another busy year begins, it may be a good time to take a deep breath, take care of yourself and find some ways to ease the stress for your children.
To help, Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to remind everyone that we have a variety of free webinar training programs on our website.
Want to take a moment to take care of yourself? Visit our free Mindfulness (for adults) one-hour webinar.
Your child may also benefit from our free Mindfulness for Youth45-minute webinar or our free Bullying and Cyberbullying one-hour webinar
Our growing library of on-demand webinars are also designed to help you gain the tools you need to learn about trauma-informed care, tips to help strengthen family protective factors, examine the effects of historical trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
United Way of Northern Arizona invites you to celebrate your Love of Community and be part of our special campaign throughout February to strengthen the place we all call home.
February is a month overflowing with love. There’s Valentine’s Day, of course, but it’s also national Love of Reading Month, and on February 17th, you can celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day.
That makes this the perfect time for heart-centered folks to show their love and create lasting local impact by giving to United Way of Northern Arizona. Love of Community is about each of us playing a part in supporting youth, building stronger families, healthier communities, and a more resilient region.
Every dollar donated stays right here in northern Arizona. Whether you’re giving for the first time or renewing your commitment to our community, now is the time to show that United is the Way to make a difference for our friends and neighbors in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.
For National Girls and Women in Sport Day on Feb. 4, hear from student-athletes across NAU Athletics about the first time they picked up a ball or club or laced on running shoes, their best moments wearing blue and gold and how their athletic careers are helping prepare them for their professional careers, in their sport or in an office.
through innovative public-private partnerships. The town currently has 1,480 housing units in various stages of development – proof that creative collaborations between municipalities and developers can deliver results.
Last month, Highview at Boulder Creek broke ground on the first phase of what will ultimately be more than 300 factory-built homes as part of a larger mixed-use development on the west side of town. It’s an area with little infrastructure and currently no links to the Town’s water or wastewater systems.
The Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted the plan with one condition: an update to the Future Growth Illustration, which involved changes to the land use designations for four areas within Coconino County jurisdiction.
Click here for more detail on the changes to the map.
