Joplin Globe Editorial Board backs R-8 administrators' plan to reopen Joplin High School

In an editorial this morning, the Joplin Globe Editorial Board backed R-8 administrators' plan to reopen Joplin High School with a combination of in-person and virtual learning that would see students at the high school every other day.

We trust our local school officials — particularly the high school principal, Steve Gilbreth — who are in the building every day and who are telling us that they cannot ensure social distancing with the sheer number of students they have. 

We trust that they have studied this problem all summer long, that they have reviewed countless scenarios and have come up with what they believe to be the best solution in a difficult situation.

No, a split schedule is not ideal — but nothing about the coronavirus pandemic is ideal. We must adapt to the new normal, and the new normal asks that we social distance from one another to stay safe and healthy. Students should not be forced to go back to school in an environment where social distancing is impossible, and for their safety — and the safety of their teachers and staff as well — the district should proceed with its split schedule idea.

The board split 3-3 on the proposal when it was presented Tuesday night with Board President Sharrock Dermott and board members Lori Musser and Michael Joseph supporting it with board members Jeff Koch, Brent Jordan and Derek Gander opposed.

Board member Debbie Fort, who was absent Tuesday night, will cast the deciding vote when the board meets 6:30 p.m. today in the Memorial Administration Building.