County Superintendents react to Governor Parson closes school for the remainder of the academic year

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson ordered all public and charter schools to remain closed for the remainder of the school year Thursday afternoon. His order does not include the nutrition and child care outlined in the Stay Home Missouri order the governor issued last week.

School services are expected to run through the last day of school, as determined by the school calender approved by each district’s board of education.

Richland Superintendent Frank Killian voiced his approval of the decision to shut down the school buildings for the year.

“I support his decision,” said Killian. “Richland was planning on calling school off for the remainder of year to ensure everyone’s safety.”

“We are in unchartered waters,” said Bell City Superintendent Matt Asher. “ All you can do is roll with the punches really.”

Asher stated the county superintendents have been in constant contact concerning the everchanging situation with COVID-19. Asher said he was glad the decision was made. He also spoke of Bell City’s seniors.

Asher stated he felt bad for the seniors not getting those final moments at school. He also stated Bell City is exploring the idea of an outdoor graduation for the seniors, but the details have yet to be worked out.

He went on to say the school would continue to provide the enrichment material to the students and would adapt when students can finally return to class.

Killian also spoke of his concerns for the students and the events they will miss out on.

“Graduation and prom are the main functions talked about but there are other meaningful events many students are missing out on this year and I feel badly for all students but wish them and their families the best,” said Killian. “Ms. Rhodes and Richland’s senior sponsors have been talking regularly about how to have some type of graduation ceremony, enabling Richland’s seniors to experience this rite of passage. This is still in the planning phase with safety being the No. 1 criteria. Staying safe and ensuring those in need of food are fed is our No. 1 mission at this point.”

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will provide guidelines to each district as to how to proceed with the school year.

In addition to issuing the order to keep schools closed, the governor also stated the Stay Home Missouri order and social distancing are working in the fight against COVID-19.

“I want Missourians to know that our aggressive efforts to combat COVID-19 are working. Based on traffic data across the state, we know that people are following the Stay Home Missouri order and we are very appreciative of that.” Gov. Parson said. “Missouri is in a good place right now, but we must keep up those efforts.”