STUDENTS GIVE IDEAS FOR BETTERING SCHOOL DISTRICT

Cape Girardeau Central High School students say the school district needs to do a better job of telling about positive happenings at school.

Students offered those and other suggestions Monday at a meeting of the Vision Planning Committee, which was appointed by the Board of Education to collect suggestions for improving the school district.

The committee will present a program and gather suggestions at the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee Friday at 7:30 a.m. at Drury Lodge. A town-hall meeting will be held Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. at Central High School to discuss information compiled so far.

Eventually, the committee will present a report to the school board for use in developing a five-year strategic plan for the district.

Students who participated Monday are members of a Student Advisory Committee at the high school. Members of the committee serve as presidents of student clubs and representatives of athletic teams.

Students said that if people could spend time at the schools they would see firsthand the good things being done and those that need improvement.

One improvement would be a new high-school campus; students said the campus is too small, outdated and short of parking.

Several said more money is needed, maybe even a tax increase, to fund projects. School officials should also evaluate how money is already being spent, they said.

More technology, especially computers, was suggested. Students said teachers also need courses in how to use technology so they can better use high-tech methods in class.

The students want to encourage school spirit and attendance at school events by students, teachers and school board members.

Students also suggested encouraging teachers to use more creative ideas in their classes and a better method for evaluating teaching skills. The students said some teachers are great and some aren't.

Students want courses designed for those headed to college and those looking for a vocation. They also suggested that more time with counselors is needed to help make career decisions.

The group also suggested employing more minority teachers and providing positive role models for all students.

The students want their lunch period increased from 25 minutes to 30 minutes.