KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After an intense court battle, Gordon Parks Elementary School was granted permission to reopen its doors. A judge recently ruled in favor of the school, saying the Missouri Board of Education’s decision not to renew the school’s charter was unlawful.
On Wednesday, students returned to class — some kindergarteners, who arrived for their very first day of school.
Gordon Parks teaches K-2nd grade, but hopes to eventually add third, fourth and fifth graders to their school.
FOX 4’s Kathy Quinn spoke with Gordon Parks School Board President Doug Curry on campus. He said having kids back in the building was a good feeling — especially knowing what it took for some families to get there.
“We have a lot of parents who have special needs, they live in transitional housing,” he said, “so they’re not really sure from month to month [where they will live].”
Regardless of the difficulties that come with families who don’t have permanent homes, Curry said the pros outweigh the cons.
“It’s a challenge, but they are all great people,” he said. “We’re delighted to have them and their children here at the school.”
While the Missouri Board of Education has the right to appeal a judge’s order to allow the school to reopen its doors, Curry said he hopes they don’t.
“We really believe it’s in these children’s best interest to continue with a stable school environment,” he said.
