CAPE BOARD OF EDUCATION RATES DISTRICT

In terms of meeting its goals over the past two years, the Cape Girardeau Board of Education rates the school district 7 to 8 1/2 on a 10-point scale.

Those were the results when Superintendent Dr. Dan Steska asked board members to rate the district's performance during the board's annual retreat Monday. This year's retreat was held at Black Forest Villages just north of Cape Girardeau. Board member David Goncher was absent.

Those who graded the district lower cited teacher morale and financial instability as the reasons. Board President Dr. Bob Fox said the ratings would be higher if the bond issue passes Aug. 7. Cape Girardeau voters will be asked to approve an operating tax levy that would increase staff salaries and provide funds to buy classroom equipment and supplies.

Steska ran through a list of 14 goals set by the district after he arrived two years ago. Among those accomplished were the renovations at Franklin Elementary School; a review of grading, discipline, final exams, attendance and dress guidelines; completion of the Missouri School Improvement Program review; and an update of building security systems.

"I'm pleased with our progress," Steska said.

New Central High School principal Michael Cowan, who completed his fifth day of work Monday, attended part of the retreat and spoke briefly.

He spent part of the day learning about the library from librarian Julia Jorgensen and the athletic facilities from athletic director Terry Kitchen. "People have been absolutely gracious around school," he said.

Cowan was hired after the board refused to renew the contract of former principal Randie Fidler. The board stuck by its controversial decision despite appeals from some members of the community to change their minds.

In other business Monday, Steska told the board that ground preparation at the new high school under construction on Silver Springs Road has resulted in 7,500 cubic yards of dirt that must be relocated within the next two weeks. He said the earth can be spread near the new track and football field, but the cost to the district will be nearly $9,500.

Before spending the money, the board directed Steska to check with earth-moving companies to see if any have a use for some or all of the dirt.