GYMNASTICS COACH AT SEMO FILES FOR SCHOOL BOARD SEAT

Bill Hopkins, women's gymnastics coach at Southeast Missouri State University, has filed for a seat on the Cape Girardeau Board of Education.

Hopkins is the fifth candidate to file for two seats on the school board. Candidates have until 5 p.m. Feb. 8 to file.

"It's something I have considered doing on and off for the last 10 years," said Hopkins, who lives at 1700 Brookwood. "I thought the opportunity was there and decided to finally take advantage of it. I think it's a good chance to give something back."

Hopkins has lived in Cape Girardeau for 15 years.

"My kids have come up and through the Cape system," he said. "By the end of this year two of my three will have finished and one is going to be a junior next year."

The experience with his own children has given Hopkins an opportunity to learn about several different schools in Cape Girardeau, he said. In addition, he said, "I've been in education for 23 years."

Hopkins taught at a public middle school for eight years. "So I'm familiar with what is being discussed here," he said.

He also taught at a private club and for the past 15 years at Southeast Missouri State University.

He also is an instructor in the physical education department.

He holds bachelor's and master's degrees. "Really, I've been in education all my life," he said.

In addition, Hopkins owns Riverside Gymnastics, a business providing gymnastics lessons for children.

Hopkins said he has a strong background in promotion and marketing, "which could be of value to the school."

"I've served on a number of national committees in my sport, and that gives some good insight on how things aren't as simple as they appear to be," he said.

"I know an awful lot of people in Cape Girardeau, the ones to get things done," he said. "I think we need to be relying on our own community to solve community problems."

Hopkins said he has talked with members of the board about issues on the table as well as time demands of the position. "I feel I have researched the position fairly well. As strong as my experience in education is, plus the private business side, I think I cover all the bases pretty well," Hopkins said. "I think I can be a help."

He is married to Jayne and they have three children. Hopkins said his job at the university places demands on his time. But, he said, "I've decided I need to make time in my schedule to do something for Cape Girardeau."