Howard High School of Technology students returned to class Monday for the first time since the death of 16-year-old girl at the school last week.
The Howard and local communities are still grieving Amy Joyner-Francis, who died following an assault in a girls’ bathroom before classes last Thursday morning.
But school administrators say most students did come to school Monday as classes resumed – reporting 90 percent attendance.
"Today was a difficult day for the Howard school community, and we are most thankful to report that our students were able to experience a day of collective care, support, and instruction amid their emotions and grief regarding the death of classmate Amy Joyner-Francis," administrators said in a statement Monday. "Her family and friends remain in our thoughts and prayers."
School was open for a short time Friday, but only to offer grief counseling.
The school and New Castle County Vo-Tech School District have scheduled meetings for Howard High parents Tuesday and Wednesday nights at 7. The first meeting Tuesday is for parents of 10th and 11th graders. Wednesday is for parents of students in 9th and 12th grade. The meetings will not be open to the public – with parents signing in at the door.
School and district officials add they have no further information to share regarding the initial altercation that led to Joyner-Francis’ death,noting Wilmington Police continue to investigate. Police questioned two girls Thursday, but no charges have been filed.
Howard High will be closed Tuesday due to the Delaware presidential primary. It will be back in session Wednesday.
A memorial for Amy Joyner-Francis will be held Sunday at Wilmington’s St. Paul UAME Church on 3114 N. Market Street from 5 to 8 pm. Family members say all other services will be private.
