SCHOOL BOARD EXAMINES ITSELF

ST. LOUIS -- School Superintendent Neyland Clark should expect more specific directives from the Cape Girardeau Board of Education in the future.

The board conducted its annual evaluation of the superintendent Saturday during a planning session in St. Louis and found that Clark has been following the board's directions.

Board members said it is time to improve their own performance.

No decision was made about Clark's contract, which is up for a one-year extension. That vote likely will be held at the school board's meeting Wednesday at 5 p.m. at 61 N. Clark.

Board members called the two-and-one-half-hour closed meeting positive and productive. Clark and board attorney Joe Russell attended all but the last half hour.

In a written statement, Board President Ed Thompson said, "We recognize that errors have been made and positive steps will be made for improvement in these areas."

Thompson encouraged community members to continue offering suggestions to improve the school system.

The board hopes to step up public relations, communication and strategic planning, and to move the schools in a more positive direction.

Specifically, Thompson suggested publishing the board's meeting agendas in the newspaper, producing district newsletters, improving communication within the district, and directing Clark to visit school buildings more often.

The board also discussed holding two meetings each month, one for routine business and the other to discuss specific issues. Thompson said the time of the meeting might change. Currently, board meetings are held at 5 p.m.

"I feel a renewed enthusiasm to move on," said Thompson.

Board member Steve Wright said: "I think the board has made some mistakes, and we will be addressing those. I think we will be setting some goals for Dr. Clark."

Board member Bob Fox said: "We've identified some problems and some solutions. We're moving in the right direction."

Fox foresees more community involvement in the schools, especially in the strategic planning process.

Board vice president Kathy Swan said, "We are taking steps to address any shortcomings we may have."

The evaluation concluded the board's retreat held Friday and Saturday. Prior to the closed meeting Saturday, an open session was held at which administrators outlined projects planned for the coming school year and gave a dismal financial projection.