Jackson School Board: Larry Koenig

Name: Larry L. Koenig

Age: 64

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau, MO

Spouse, children's names:

Spouse-Tamara

Sons- Andrew Koenig-Currently attending Graduate School at the Univ. of Cincinnati; Austin Koenig-Attending SEMO majoring in Middle School Education

Occupation: Assistant City Administrator

Employer: City of Jackson

Businesses owned, all or part: N/A

Previous offices held or sought:

Served two terms on the Jackson Board of Aldermen before being employed by the City of Jackson. Previously served twelve years on the Jackson R-2 Board of Education, serving as member, Vice-President and President.

What is the most important issue facing the Jackson Public Schools and what can be done about it?

A most important issue facing the Jackson Public Schools is that of ensuring the general public that they have and will continue to have a voice in the future of their school system. The entire R-2 district has always exhibited a great pride in their schools and they continue to demonstrate that support in many ways. It is imperative that district officials continue cultivating a relationship that promotes support and understanding from the community.

What in your background or education makes you qualified for this office?

My years of service with the City of Jackson, as a police officer, Chief of Police and Assistant City Administrator, serve as a testament to the fact that I can work as a team member, exhibiting an open mind and the ability of engage in give-and-take discussion, Additionally, my previous twelve years of service as a Jackson school board member is an excellent prerequisite for returning to that service.

Where do you stand on the issue of Common Core standards?

With total respect for everyone's individual thoughts, I must base my position on the fact that the State of Missouri has decided that public schools in this state will comply with the standards set forth by the Common Core. We, as a district, have the responsibility to design a curriculum that promotes students' success in meeting and exceeding their grade level standards. We need to approach Common Core with a positive attitude, insuring students succeed.

Do you think the Jackson School District is a good place for teachers to work? Why or why not?

The district always has been and I hope it will continue to be the good place where teachers want to teach. There was a time when new teachers entering the field and veteran teachers looking for a career home looked to Jackson for that opportunity. Hopefully, we can, again, attribute this to the fact that teachers will be supported by administration and will be allowed to do what they do best - teach.