Maize suspends all group gatherings

Abby McCoy, Co-editor-in-chief

Brianna Dover
Track coach Skeeter Rankins talks with some of his athletes during a practice March 1. As of March 13, all practices at Maize have been suspended due to concerns over Coronavirus.

Maize will suspend all group activities at the end today due to concerns of the Coronavirus.

Superintendent Chad Higgins sent an email to staff and parents this afternoon.

“We apologize for the inconvenience this causes and emphasize that we are working with health and education leaders for the sake of our students, employees and community,” Higgins said in the email.

Earlier today, the Sedgwick County Heath Department announced a ban on public gatherings over 250 people. Wesley Medical Center announced Wichita’s first confirmed case.

The suspension will be reevaluated by Sunday, March 22, Higgins said.

Senior Creighton Kelley, whose football season was cut short when he was injured in the first game, said he is disappointed.

“It’s sad,” Kelley said. “You look forward to it. I worked really hard in rehab to come back for baseball.”

Kelley hopes to play college baseball, but hasn’t committed to a school yet.

“It’s kinda a chance for some of the uncommitted seniors to play baseball or sports in the future,” Kelley said.