Education support

A new program being implemented in several Jackson schools and one in the Cape Girardeau Public School District intends to connect students with extra educational support if they need help with schoolwork.

Southeast Missourian educator reporter Ruth Campbell recently reported on the program ICU. It's based on the book "The Power of ICU," a reference to a hospital intensive care unit.

Cory Crosnoe, principal of R.O. Hawkins Junior High School in Jackson, described this as a safety net for students, and the results so far have led to better grade outcomes for some students.

While we're not proponents of programs for the sake of having programs, there are some that can lead to better outcomes. Time will tell how successful ICU will be in the long run.

For some, it's about the extra help and having someone to explain a concept in a new way. For others it can be about repetition and practice. While we know there are some students who are apathetic, hopefully these tactics will encourage them to reach their potential. Combining increased attention with parental support, we hope more students will improve their academic performance.