NICEVILLE — With President Joe Biden declaring a National Day of Mourning on Jan. 9 to honor President Jimmy Carter’s passing, the Okaloosa County School District says it will remain open to celebrate his legacy.
The district announced that all schools, including Eglin Elementary School, will be open. The district also said that transportation services will operate as usual for students who live on Eglin Air Force Base.
“President Jimmy Carter was a remarkable leader and humanitarian whose life of service exemplified integrity, compassion, and dedication to others,” Superintendent Marcus Chambers said in a news release. “On this National Day of Mourning, our students will have the opportunity to learn about the 39th President of the United States, reflecting on his contributions to our nation and his tireless humanitarian efforts.”
Carter, who passed away at 100 on Dec. 29, was president from 1977 to 1981. On Dec. 30, Biden designated Thursday a day of mourning.
With direction from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, flags within the state will be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations and grounds in Carter’s honor. This tribute remains in effect until sunset on Jan. 28.
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Okaloosa schools to honor President Jimmy Carter on day of mourning