MAUMELLE, Ark. — After six days of winter weather closures, many Central Arkansas students are expected to return to the classroom Tuesday.
The Little Rock School District, Pulaski County Special School District and Pine Bluff School District all announced that schools and offices will reopen, saying conditions have improved enough to safely resume classes.
For 9th grader Gavin Stolzer at Maumelle High School, the return to school can’t come soon enough. Stolzer has autism, and his favorite thing is going to school.
While many students enjoy the extended break, Stolzer wanted to be back in the classroom.
“The reaction I was feeling, it was like, I was so sad when school was cancelled,” Stolzer said.
[Multiple central Arkansas school districts returning to class on Tuesday after…
MAUMELLE, Ark. — After six days of winter weather closures, many Central Arkansas students are expected to return to the classroom Tuesday.
The Little Rock School District, Pulaski County Special School District and Pine Bluff School District all announced that schools and offices will reopen, saying conditions have improved enough to safely resume classes.
For 9th grader Gavin Stolzer at Maumelle High School, the return to school can’t come soon enough. Stolzer has autism, and his favorite thing is going to school.
While many students enjoy the extended break, Stolzer wanted to be back in the classroom.
“The reaction I was feeling, it was like, I was so sad when school was cancelled,” Stolzer said.
Multiple central Arkansas school districts returning to class on Tuesday after winter storm
Stolzer says being in school gives him structure, purpose and connection, and he has plenty of favorite subjects.
“I’m just excited about every class, like English, math, social studies, science, Spanish, band, everything,” he said.
Stolzer maintained contact with classmates through social media during the break, but he says it’s much better being with them in person.
“Doing some posting on social media, Facebook and Instagram — all of that,” Stolzer said. “I really miss everybody. I’m just ready to see them.”
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His father, Todd Stolzer, says the lack of routine can be challenging for students with autism.
“That is the challenge, because obviously they want to stay up late, sleep in and everything like that,” he said.
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One of the biggest motivators for Stolzer is the band, where he plays percussion, a part of his school routine he missed the most.
“I like playing the percussion, and it’s just so nice,” Stolzer said.
Pulaski County Special School District officials say the decision to reopen followed careful consideration and that they believe it is safe for students and staff to return.
Stolzer says he’s ready to get back into his routine and back to school spirit.
“I was so sad when it was closed, and I’m just ready to start the day off by going back,” he said, adding, “Go Hornets.”
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