Parent says board shouldn't replace middle school administrators

A parent of two Cape Girardeau Central Middle School students told the school board Monday night the school's principal and assistant principal shouldn't be replaced.

"These two wonderful people are the heart and soul of Cape Central Middle School," said parent Mary Jackson.

The school board last week voted 5-2 behind closed doors to replace principal Frank Ellis and assistant principal Debbie Followell.

Jackson, who has a sixth-grade daughter and a fifth-grade son, said Ellis has been a good administrator. "For some of the children at the middle school," she said, "he is the father figure they don't have at home."

The decision comes amid reports of parental complaints about lack of communication and student discipline problems.

But Jackson dismisses such reports. She said Ellis has handled student behavior issues that have arisen at the school.

Jackson said she's circulating petitions in support of Ellis and Followell.

Jackson was one of about 10 parents and students who showed up in support of Ellis and Followell. But board president Steven Trautwein only let Jackson speak.

Trautwein said the board would listen to Jackson, but wouldn't discuss the issue.