PERRYVILLE – Work will soon begin to make the Perryville High School football fields safe for players and spectators after the fields were littered with broken glass and debris during the May 14 tornado. The playing field in Pirate Stadium and the practice field will be stripped and re-sodded to ensure that all dangerous materials have been removed before practices and games resume.
“We’re pleased to share that our insurance provider has approved funding for important improvements to both the football playing field and the lower practice field,” said Superintendent Dr. Fara Jones.“ This upgrade will enhance the safety and quality of our athletic facilities for students, staff, and the community.
“As part of the insurance-approved plan, the work will include stripping the existing field surface, replacing the irrigation system, laser grading for proper drainage and leveling, and applying fresh sod grass to both fields. These steps will result in a safer, more durable playing surface for all activities. This work could also lead to future developments in the area, as part of a long-range plan.”
Dr. Jones said that, despite efforts by staff and volunteers, there have been ongoing concerns about the potential presence of glass and other debris embedded in the field surface. “While volunteers and our team have worked diligently to clean and inspect these areas, remnants of glass still exist on the sidelines, sidewalks, and bleacher areas,” she said.
The PHS football playing and practice fields were damaged during the March 14 tornado that caused significant damage to the campus of Perry County School District 32. The fields were littered with broken glass and debris. Work will soon begin to restore the fields so that football practices and games can be safely resumed.
“Out of an abundance of caution—and in coordination with our insurance provider—we are taking proactive measures to ensure no safety risks remain. These improvements reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to student safety and our pride in providing high-quality, well-maintained facilities for practices, games, and school events.”
In addition to these improvements on the game field and the practice field, the middle school practice field is currently under review for possible restoration work. Its close proximity to homes that sustained extensive storm damage raises concerns about potential debris and safety risks on this field as well.
“We are working closely with our partners to assess whether additional support is needed for this area, Dr. Jones said.
“These upgrades represent more than repairs—they are part of our ongoing commitment to student safety, athletic excellence, and community pride. We look forward to seeing our students safely back on the fields this fall.”