JACKSON SCHOOL HEAD TO RETIRE

JACKSON -- The leadership will change at Jackson Public Schools next year as School Superintendent Wayne Maupin and Business Manager Howard Alexander plan to announce their retirement at tonight's school board meeting.

Maupin is in his 26th year in the Jackson School District. His career in Jackson began when he was a student teacher.

He then was hired as a physical education teacher and a coach. Maupin rose through the ranks, serving as assistant principal at the junior high school, assistant high school principal, and assistant superintendent before he was named to his current position in July 1988.

The school board was informed at the end of its last meeting that Maupin would be retiring, said T. Wayne Lewis, board president.

"We were all surprised, and somewhat saddened by his announced retirement," Lewis said. "We certainly understand his desires to retire."

Maupin wouldn't comment on his decision when contacted Monday. He said he would make some remarks at tonight's meeting.

Lewis said he felt the board would have ample time to select a new superintendent with Maupin's early announcement.

"That's typical Maupin. He's a true gentlemen, letting us know ahead of time. We hate to lose him," Lewis said.

Alexander is completing his 30th year in education. He said he felt this would be a good time to change vocations.

Alexander taught at Festus for five years at the beginning of his career. He then was elementary principal at Jackson for 16 years, and for past nine years, he has served as business manager.

In financial matters tonight, the board will consider its agreement for the investment of public funds through the Missouri Securities Investment Program. In addition, the board will consider participating in the selection of directors for the program and renewing its building insurance through Public Entity Risk Managers.

In other business, the board will consider changes in the district's student testing plan. Maupin is expected to update the board on the proposed Hancock II amendment, which is on the Nov. 8 ballot. Enrollment figures for this school year is also on the agenda.