Leaving a Light on for 2020 Seniors
Thu, 05/07/2020 - 9:29am
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By:
Amanda Mendez, Publisher
Governor Mike Parson announced on April 9 that all Missouri public and charter school buildings will remain closed through the remainder of the academic year.
Governor Parson said in his daily press briefing that the recommendation came from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and several school superintendents from rural and urban areas across the state.
"Continuing our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, I am ordering all public and charter schools to remain closed through the remainder of this academic year, with the exception of nutrition and child care outlined in our Stay Home Missouri Order," Governor Parson said. School services may continue through the last day of school in each school district.
In Howell County, the public reaction has been a wave of sadness and disappointment, not only from students and faculty who have no way of knowing with school will be in session again, but also from parents, families, and sports fans.
In a letter posted on the school’s Facebook page on April 9, Willow Springs High School principal Marty Spence, wrote, “I’m sorry...there’s a lot of things I want to say right now, but I’ll just start with an apology. I’m sorry Seniors and all WSHS students that we can’t be together to celebrate the end of the school year.”
Spence promised more answers and guidance after the school board meeting set to take place on April 13.
On Friday night, both Willow Springs and Liberty school districts participated in the "Be The Light.” At the Eagles’ Nest in Mountain View, at Booster Field and Palenske Field in Willow Springs, stadium lights blazed into the night to show support for the senior class of 2020 and spring sports athletes, coaches, and families.
Athletic Director Robert James said in a statement, “The lights are a symbol showing that we are thinking of them and are looking forward to returning to school and competition.”