RHHS Students and Parents,
As the situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, I feel it is necessary to provide an update this morning. I personally spoke with students who attended softball and track practice on Monday regarding the future of spring sports and activity sponsors have passed along information via social media as school was not in session at the time information became available. Parents and students have expressed concern following Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s decision to close all school buildings for the remainder of the academic year, ending all spring athletic and activities seasons in that state. This letter is an attempt to clarify the current situation in Missouri.
I want to reiterate the guidance MSHSAA provided all Missouri schools on Monday afternoon and the address Missouri Governor Mike Parson delivered Tuesday evening. As you read this information, please keep in mind that the situation continues to evolve, and this information may become out of date quickly. I will provide you with additional facts as they become available.
MSHSAA informed member schools on Monday, March 16, that they do not currently plan to end all spring seasons. However, with some activities entering the championship phase shortly, it was decided to cancel certain events. Unfortunately, but necessarily, all music competitions have been cancelled and will not be rescheduled. Softball, track, and scholar bowl are in a wait and see status. There is the possibility of limited competition and extended seasons for these. If we are able to proceed, MSHSAA will still enforce the 14 practice minimum requirement for all sports. Practices attended before school closure will remain valid and the count will continue when school resumes. MSHSAA further stated that no practices may be held while a school is closed due to the pandemic.
In Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s address on the evening on March 17, he stated that there is currently no statewide plan to close schools. He also said that additional restrictions will be coming soon. As expressed earlier, this is a fluid situation and we have not yet been made aware of the full extent of the restrictions.
Student athletes were given some general guidelines on Monday. Most importantly, they were asked to practice social distancing in accordance with CDC guidance. A routine exercise program is vital to maintaining a healthy body and immune system. While large gatherings are not advised at this time, students may choose to voluntarily meet in small groups for the purpose of physical activity. If this occurs, strict hygiene procedures should be adhered to. Students wishing to continue with an exercise routine are encouraged to communicate with their coaches. We can all be reached by email and have resources enabling us to provide workout plans. Contact information can be found below.
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. I will assist you and continue to provide updated information as it is available.
Ashley Arwood
Athletic/Activities Director
417-395-4191
Softball
Kylie Ackerman kackerman@richhill.k12.mo.us
Amanda Buesing abuesing@richhill.k12.mo.us
Track
Ashley Arwood aarwood@richhill.k12.mo.us
Damon Green dgreen@richhill.k12.mo.us
Brandon Liggins bliggins@richhill.k12.mo.us