GOOD LESSONS LEARNED ABOUT SCHOOL FINANCES

Much has been said in recent months about the financial situation in the Cape Girardeau School District. Over time, we learned of the problems the district was having in meeting state-mandated fund balances. That problem has been resolved, thanks to some belt-tightening. And we learned that major construction and renovation projects are costing far more than estimated. That situation has been offset by higher-than-expected revenue for those projects.

In the course of finding out more and more about the school district's finances, some good things have occurred:

-- First, school district patrons have been educated about the district's financial situation to the point that they will have solid information to rely upon when they are asked to vote, probably next April, on the second phase of the comprehensive construction and renovation project.

-- And the district's patrons have learned that school administrators and board members are not only willing to tackle these situations as they arise, but school officials also are willing to keep the public informed with the latest and best information.

-- Finally -- and this is good news indeed -- the district appears to be back on sound financial footing as far as day-to-day operations go. And, in spite of cost overruns, the district is likely to have $1.4 million left over from Phase I of the construction and renovation projects, which will go toward the projects in Phase II including a new high school building.

It isn't always easy for officials of any government entity to deal frankly and openly with such situations. But in this case school officials have tried to keep the public well-informed along the way. This means that a good portion of the education process required for anything as major as a bond-issue vote already has been accomplished in large part.

It will still be up to voters to show their support for Phase II. As indicated from the outset, there would be no additional tax increase for Phase II. The levy in place for Phase I would continue.

The school district is on target to complete construction and renovation projects that were long overdue. When finished, the school district will have up-to-date and sound buildings throughout the system. This will be a real plus for students and teachers -- and for the community as a whole.