BOARD MEMBERS PRAISE JACKSON RETIRES

JACKSON -- Board members here had kind words for two retiring administrators at Tuesday's school board meeting.

Jackson School Superintendent Wayne Maupin and Business Manager Howard Alexander both announced their retirement June 30. The retirements were accepted by reluctant board members.

"Howard is one of the most dedicated professionals that I have ever worked with," Maupin said about the retiring business manager.

He said Alexander was tireless, performed excellent work, provided valuable advice and was unparalleled in his knowledge of financial matters.

In broaching his own retirement, Maupin told the board, "I'm glad to have had a job for 26 years. I don't have adequate words to express my appreciation."

Board president T. Wayne Lewis said it was a "real pleasure" to serve with Maupin. He said the board appreciated the retirement notice so that it will have ample time to find a replacement.

"He will be a hard act to follow," said board member Jack Knowlan Jr.

Maupin started at the Jackson School District as a physical education teacher, and he worked his way up the ranks to the superintendent's position in July 1988.

Alexander is completing his 30th year in education. He was elementary principal here for 16 years before being named business manager in 1986.

In other business, Tuesday, Maupin said it was impossible to speculate on the impact the proposed Hancock II amendment would have on school finances. The amendment, which is on the Nov. 8 ballot, would require a vote for tax increases and could limit state spending.

He said specific numbers aren't available yet to determine how the measure, if passed, would affect the district's budget.

Maupin said Senate Bill 380, which was passed in 1992 by the state legislature to provide more funding for school districts, likely would be nullified if Hancock II passes. He said the board has seen the benefit provided by Senate Bill 380 for the school district.

"I find it's scary that we can put something like this on the ballot without knowing what it's going to do," Knowlan said.

That kind of uncertainty is enough of a reason to oppose Hancock II, he said.

Maupin told the board that school superintendents in Southeast Missouri are seeking specific information about the impact Hancock II could have on their districts. The board said they would like to consider those figures at the next meeting, Oct. 11.

Maupin also reported that district enrollment was 3,815, and increase of 132 students over last year.