LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — An Arkansas school superintendent has died from the illness caused by the coronavirus.
The Atkins School District announced that Superintendent Jody Jenkins (pictured) died Tuesday morning due to complications from COVID-19.
Jenkins announced on Sept. 13 that he had tested positive for the virus and had been hospitalized for the past several days.
Classes resumed in Arkansas last month, and the state on Monday said there are 717 active cases in its public schools.
The state is requiring schools to offer in-person classes five days a week, though they can also offer virtual or hybrid options.
A statement on the website of the Atkins School District posted the following regarding Jenkins’ death:
We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved superintendent, Jody Jenkins, passed away early this morning due to complications of COVID. Our first and foremost concern is his wife Kristi and children Ryan, Jackie and son-in-law Brandon. Above all he was a loving husband and father. We are comforted to know he is in his eternal home. He was a graduate of Atkins High School and was able to return home in 2019 to lead the Atkins School District which he considered his dream job. He loved the community, he loved his school, and he adored all of the students. Please join us in praying for his family.
Image via Atkins School District
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