SCHOOL PANEL SELECTS THREE SCENARIOS TO STUDY

The committee studying redistricting Cape Girardeau's elementary school attendance areas will look at the merits and pitfalls of pairing schools, a sixth-grade center and a magnet school.

These first three scenarios were chosen based on ideas gathered at parent meetings held March 6 at each of the six elementary schools. Slightly more than 200 parents attended the meetings.

The redistricting committee met Tuesday. Three people and two media representatives attended.

A theme that surfaced from each of the parent meetings was that parents want what is best for all children. Principals said parents appreciated an opportunity to express their views.

Parents at most meetings said the school district should be looking at building a new elementary school. However, some parents were doubtful a bond issue would be successful in the near future.

School board member Bob Fox, co-chairman of the redistricting committee, asked committee members to consider if reorganizing the school system will be what's best for children, especially if the long-term goal will be building an elementary school.

"Do we really want to get into reorganization as a short-term fix?" Fox asked.

When looking at pairing schools, the committee wants to see several possible combinations of a one-level school with a two-level school. Alma Schrader, Clippard and Jefferson are one level. Franklin, May Greene and Washington are two levels.

A sixth-grade center was suggested at several parent meetings.

The possibility of a sixth-grade center at May Greene elementary was suggested last summer. Kindergarten through fifth-graders at May Greene would have had a choice to attend other elementary schools. The suggestion wasn't popular among May Greene parents or parents of sixth-graders in other elementary schools.

A magnet school offers specialized instruction that is so attractive to parents and students that they will go wherever the program is offered. In other cities, popular magnet schools focus on performing arts, computers and technology.

Federal money is available for start-up costs for magnet schools that address minority enrollments.

Louis Haynes, a resident of the school district, told the committee it shouldn't handle redistricting like a hot potato.

"You have got to make a decision and who cares what toes are stepped on," he said.

The committee has asked that people submit suggestions. About a dozen letters have been received so far. Letters can be sent to the school board office, 61 N. Clark, or any elementary principal.

The committee will meet again April 5 and April 19.