SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — A federal judge ruled in favor of Springfield Public Schools in a lawsuit between the district’s Board of Education and Springfield families over the school’s re-entry plan.

The families were represented by Springfield attorney Kristi Fulnecky.

The re-entry plan for Springfield Public Schools was set up for the fall semester of 2020 to keep students safe from COVID-19 as they returned to classes.

Back in 2020, Fulnecky said the district’s plan was harmful to students because it was not providing students equal access to education.

On May 27, 2021, A court order showed the judge ruled in favor of Springfield Public Schools (SPS).

The following is a statement from Doctor John Jungmann, the Superintendent of SPS:

“Today’s decision in federal court unequivocally affirms the district’s efforts during this public health emergency. It is especially fitting that today’s announcement comes on the final day of the 2020-2021 school year, which has been extraordinarily difficult for everyone. Thanks to a remarkable team of 3,500 employees, 23,500 resilient students, and an incredibly supportive community. SPS was able to rise to the occasion during remarkable circumstances, delivering high-quality education and other essential services to all those it serves. We celebrate the court’s ruling as a compelling victory that brings this long and unnecessary legal action to its final conclusion.”