U.S. Rep. Jason Smith visits Perryville High School amid ongoing tornado recovery

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

PERRYVILLE, Mo., (KBSI) — U.S. Rep. Jason Smith visited the Perry County School District 32 campus this week to tour tornado damage at Perryville High School and meet with students.

District officials said Smith toured the high school building, which was heavily damaged by a tornado that struck the community last March. As a result of the storm, about 750 students have been relocated to temporary learning spaces.

During his visit, Smith also met with members of the Perryville FFA Chapter and discussed his own involvement in FFA and its impact on his career.

In a statement, Smith said it was difficult to see the extent of the damage but praised the resilience of the school’s staff and students. He said he plans to continue working to ensure the community has the support needed for recovery.

District officials thanked Smith for visiting and learning more about the challenges facing the school as rebuilding efforts continue.