CAPE UPDATE: CAPE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR AWARDS

So often we read or hear about the alleged chaotic state of education in our country. What is often overlooked are the tremendous demands on educators today. In a recent MSTA (Missouri State Teachers Association) professional development workshop (yes, educators do continue their education) Larry Deaton, the presenter, spoke of protecting the classroom. In essence, we must consider the protection of the many dedicated professional educators found in our classrooms, both public and private.

The Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce's decision to establish an annual recognition of educators is a first step in providing the awareness of how important the American classroom is to our future. It is also an activity worthy in itself for recognizing excellence in education. The categories include: elementary, secondary, special services, vocational education, and administration. Possible recipients of these awards should exemplify the dedication of being an educator. Hopefully candidates will have a proven record of service to students and will have demonstrated their professional skills to the level which commands respect and admiration of students, parents and colleagues. To accept anything less would seriously undermine the profession of education.

Additional criteria for consideration are the active roles these individuals play throughout their community; their service and leadership in civic and humanitarian efforts.

Who can nominate these candidates? Anyone can submit the name of a nominee. You may nominate a person you feel worthy of these distinguished awards by writing a letter of nomination and sending the letter to the office of the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce. All nominations must be received by the chamber by 5 p.m. Feb. 15. Individuals will be notified of their nomination for this award and will be afforded the opportunity to withdraw their name from consideration or to complete the application for this award.

The community is encouraged to take this opportunity to recognize individuals who contribute so much to the future of our young people. Place April 29 on your calendar for the first Educators of the Year recognition dinner. For more information regarding the nomination process and the dinner, contact Kim McDowell, education chairperson, at 335-6611, or the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce.

This column is made available through the cooperation of the Southeast Missourian staff and is being presented in an attempt to provide accurate information to the community on issues related to education. Initially, the Cape Update will focus primarily on actual events occurring within the local schools; however, parents, grandparents or others wishing answers to specific educational questions are encouraged to submit questions to Cape Update, in care of Cape Girardeau public schools, 61 N. Clark, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63701.

Neyland Clark is superintendent of Cape Girardeau public schools.