On Wednesday, January 5, Marshall Public Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Carol Maher announced she was informed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) that an extension for MHS’s current in-person/remote learning plan would not be granted.

According to a news release, DESE officials asked the MPS administrative teams to revise the plan, in an attempt to offer in-seat learning to all students, at all times.

During her most recent announcement, MHS Principal Christy Jones said students are expected to attend in-person class from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with freshmen and sophomores scheduled to meet at the high school, while junior and seniors meet in-person at the Martin Community Center.

The plan noted on Tuesdays and Thursdays, students are expected to work from home and attend class via Google Meet. Attendance would be required.

Following DESE’s request, Dr. Maher says, “The Marshall High School’s biggest challenge is now, rather than two locations, we will need four. Options are being explored.”

MHS’s current plan will continue through the week of January 10-14, with in-person classes on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday and Thursday will be remote via Google Classroom.

Dr. Maher says, “As future plans are finalized in the coming weeks, we will announce those plans to teachers, students, and the community. We ask for all Owls to show each other support and grace while we continue to work hard for student and adult success.”