Candidate questionnaire: Kenneth Cook

NAME: Kenneth Cook

AGE: 55

PLACE OF BIRTH: Cape Girardeau

SPOUSE, CHILDREN'S NAMES:

Wife: Diane Cook

Children: Michael Cook, Marianne Cook, Erin Carlton, Rebecca Cook, Sarah Cook

OCCUPATION: Production technician

EMPLOYER: Procter & Gamble

PREVIOUS OFFICES HELD OR SOUGHT: Chaffee Alderman 3 years, Delta School Board 6 years

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE FACING THE DELTA SCHOOL BOARD?:

We must continue to monitor our financial resources and expenses in the coming years. With our income experiencing a substantial decrease, we must be diligent when using our financial resources. We must eliminate any expenses that are not important to the education and development of our students today.

I feel we should take a serious look at participating in the A+ Program, which would provide paid tuition for qualifying students at 2-year institutions in Missouri. Students would have to commit to participating in the program and fulfilling certain requirements, but it seems to me it is worth the effort.

I feel we need to be diligent in preparing our students for life beyond High School. Providing information on vocational training, college and other post-secondary education must be stressed. A high school diploma must be viewed as a starting point to continuing education and opening doors to new ideas, and not the end of the line for education.

WHAT IN YOUR BACKGROUND OR EDUCATION MAKES YOU QUALIFIED FOR THIS OFFICE?:

Education: Bachelor of science in computer science and bachelor of science in business administration majoring in management -- both from Southeast Missouri State University.

I have been active in several youth groups while my children were growing up, and have continued to help to this day. I have helped with the Delta Youth League and have served as president of the Delta Booster Club in the past. My experience working with young people and knowing they can succeed when the right foundation is set for them is the biggest reason I will continue to be involved in the Delta Public School system.