A Message from WPSS Superintendent Frances Varnado

"We are saddened by the fact that Governor Edwards has extended his order for schools to remain

closed until April 30. We miss our students and staff but will continue to keep their safety and well-being as our number one focus.

Our “grab and go” feeding program will stop on April 8 for a short break. We will resume feedings on Wednesday, April 22. The feeding sites will continue to be Enon Elementary, Mt. Hermon, Franklinton Primary, Thomas Elementary, and Wesley Ray Elementary schools. Meals can be picked up on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between the hours of 10:00 AM and 11:15 AM.

Teachers have been reaching out to students to make sure they are well. Teachers are also providing resources that families may use in order to keep students engaged in learning if they wish. The assignments and suggestions are completely optional. These are not required and will not be graded.

Many high school students have enjoyed the Jumpstart Summer opportunity that we have offered in the past. It is very unfortunate that we have had to cancel the Washington Parish Jumpstart Summer program for this summer.

We know that our seniors are as distraught as we are about the ending of their last year of high school. One area of concern for seniors are their grades. The Department of Education has waived all State testing, attendance, and seat-time requirements. We will calculate final grades for seniors based on work that was completed prior to March 13, when school was dismissed. Final grades for seniors will be posted in Parent Command Center by April 30. Any questions regarding the final grades should be addressed via email to your school counselor or principal. Another area of concern is graduation ceremonies. With the extension of school closing, it will not be possible to host graduation ceremonies in early May as scheduled. However, we are not canceling graduations. The ceremonies will be postponed until June or July. We will keep you updated as the exact dates are decided.

This is a time of uncertainty and concern for everyone. We will continue to update you as we receive information and decisions are made for our school system. Please check our district website and our district Facebook page on Friday mornings for regular updates.

Stay safe, wash your hands, and keep reading!"

Frances Varnado, Superintendent