CAPE UPDATE: A TRIBUTE TO OUTSTANDING EDUCATORS

Last week, the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce honored five outstanding educators in the first "Educators of the Year Awards." This long-awaited recognition became a reality primarily due to the determination of Kim McDowell, chair of the education committee of the Chamber of Commerce.

It was fitting that Cape Girardeau joined as a community to honor these outstanding teachers and administrators. Carol Reimann, Clippard Elementary; Tammy Brotherton, L.J. Schultz; Joseph "Bud" Thompson, Cape Girardeau Area Vocational School; Marjorie Engleman, May Greene; and Sister Mary Ann Fischer, Notre Dame High School; all epitomize excellence in education. The lives of their students are richer and fuller for the experience they've had with their respective teacher.

Equally important is the sponsorship of these awards by area businesses. Teachers and administrators who deal with growing educational demands often feel that few recognize or understand their efforts and accomplishments. But when companies like St. Francis Medical Center, Southeast Missouri Hospital, Cybertel, KBSI and many other companies recognize the achievements of these educators, it becomes very meaningful.

On behalf of Cape Girardeau public schools, we are extremely proud of this year's recipients for their extraordinary contributions to the children of our community. These select educators represent many others who were nominated for this prestigious recognition.

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A note of appreciation to Sen. Peter Kinder

Senator Kinder, during the past week, has been inundated with concerns related to Senate Bill 676, referred to as the "clean up" bill. This bill, designed originally to clean up the legislative problems created by Senate Bill 380, unfortunately will adversely affect Cape Girardeau public schools and many other school districts throughout Southeast Missouri.

While Senator Kinder could not stop passage of this piece of legislation, he did take the time to understand its devastating impact on the whole debate of equity. Senator Kinder's no vote was appreciated and his interest and care in his constituents is to be commended.

Neyland Clark is superintendent of Cape Girardeau public schools.