There has been much discussion in recent days about the 2008 MSHSAA Speech, Debate and Drama Championships, April 18-19, concluding on the Feast of Passover. Much of the information being disseminated on this issue has been misrepersented, and the following is being provided to clarify concerns on this matter.

Performances for the Readers Theatre event in question takes place on Friday, April 18. The top two teams from each section (four total) advance to Saturday's championship round. The 30-minute finals performances will conclude between 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., allowing any student who may need to return home to meet religious obligations before sundown the opportunity to do so.

The MSHSAA Board of Directors discussed concerns presented in writing by Clayton High School concerning the scheduling conflict at its March 6 meeting and took the following action:

"Motion Sumy, Gohn second, to acknowledge receipt of Clayton's letter of concern regarding the speech and debate tournament taking place on Passover; to send a letter thanking Clayton for sharing its concerns; and take these concerns under advisement when scheduling future events. Motion passed 7-0.