The following letter to the editor is the response from Marshall Public Schools Superintendent Jeremy Williams to the writer’s letter that published on Oct. 30.

To the editor:

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your interest in our students and school programs.

At Marshall Public Schools, we encourage all students to be actively involved in school and extracurricular activities. The photo you are referring to includes all our students in a football program in grades 9-12 with their coaches, not just our varsity team. Research consistently shows that student engagement–whether in athletics, arts, or other programs–positively impacts academic success and personal development.

We’re proud of the enthusiasm and commitment our students show, and we value the support of community members like you.

Lavern Eick

Marshall