ILLINOIS (WITHERS BROADCASTING/DANA COMMUNICATIONS) — Mt. Vernon Township High School and Woodlawn High School have sent letters to WMIX/WDML saying, “The state’s mandates regarding masks and vaccinations are merely the headlines and excuses of the moment in an incremental dismantling of local control in public education – and other arenas — that began decades ago, with the pace only picking up since.”

Please find attached an Op-Ed letters below. They are both signed by 84 school representatives including, superintendents, board presidents, and boards of education across the state in support of local control over the processes and procedures in our districts.

You can view MVTHS’ letter here: MVTHS Op-Ed Letter 09-14-21

And WHS’ letter here: Woodlawn High School Op-Ed Letter 09-14-21

Fifteen schools in the Regional Office of Education #13 area have signed in support, including the ROE itself.  In addition, of the ROE 13 schools, five of them are here in Jefferson County. Field, Bluford, Spring Garden have also signed in support with WHS and MVHTS of this Op-Ed.