“MUSKEGON HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMY SYSTEM DEEPLY SADDENED BY TRAGIC LOSS”

MUSKEGON HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMY SYSTEM DEEPLY SADDENED

The Muskegon Public School Academy System is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of high school student Marquis Gresham, a junior and member of the varsity boys’ basketball team.  As an educational community, we join together to extend condolences to the family.  “This senseless act of violence is devastating and has left students, staff, and the community deeply saddened.” said Alena Zachery-Ross, MHPSAS Regional Vice President / Superintendent.   “Marquis was becoming a student leader and transforming into role model for the student community.  There are no words to communicate the hole his death leaves in our hearts.”  Marquis has attended Muskegon Heights Public Schools since early elementary and was to be recognized at the high school athletic banquet scheduled for last night.  Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System is closed today, Thursday, April 24^th.

M.L. King, Edgewood, and the Middle School will reopen Friday, April 25^th.  Crisis teams are in place at all schools and are meeting to assess the specific supports that need to be in place when students return. Muskegon Heights High School Academy will not be in session on Friday but will be open from 8:00 am to 11:00 am for students seeking support from counselors.  Parents and guardians are also invited to come to the high school at that time to speak to school officials.  The high school will return to full session on Monday, April 28^th.

“This is a time when all members of the community must come together and mobilize to bring an end to violence.  The goal is to provide safe schools, streets and neighborhoods for our students and their families” added Zachery-Ross.  The Muskegon Heights Public School Academy System has designated the week of May 19^th as one dedicated to peace and non-violence.   Community members interested in working with the school system to contribute to activities during that week should contact the school by calling (231) 830-3700.