ANDERSON GETTING SETTLED INTO SUPERINTENDENT'S JOB

Dr. Ron Anderson's reign as superintendent of Jackson R-2 Schools has begun in good fashion.

"It's been real enjoyable so far," Anderson said Friday. "It's been a time to get around and meet staff and a time to kind of get organized. It seems like I've spent most of my time meeting with individuals or administrators, as well as a couple of teachers."

Anderson, who said he and his wife have now "unpacked the majority of everything," was pleased to see the city of Jackson pledge support for a grant to have a police officer at school.

"I think there's a lot of interest in that," he said. "It's very timely, with what many districts are doing. I look forward to that relationship and I think we can build off of that."

Anderson has been pleased with what he has seen of the highly-touted R-2 District so far.

"I think it's been a confirmation of what I've always heard about the district, having spent more time out in the buildings," he said. "People are busy getting prepared for school. Not that far away. Our summer school session was very successful. It looks like things are moving right along. Everyone is in a planning mode right now."

He received a special welcome to the community June 21 at the annual Chamber of Commerce installation banquet. Rev. Walter Keisker, just shy of his 100th birthday, led the group in welcoming Anderson as a member by acclamation. When the initial "aye" vote was a bit lethargic, Keisker insisted it be done with more feeling.

"It was very nice," Anderson said. "It was a real honor me for him to want to do that; it's something I'll always remember."