LITTLE CUTS ADD UP FOR CAPE SCHOOL DISTRICT

They sound like money-saving tips readers have become accustomed to seeing in Redbook magazine:

* Only run full loads in the dishwasher.

* Shut off lights when you're not in the room.

* Buy in bulk.

But they're actually steps the Cape Girardeau School District is taking to save money while waiting to see whether an anticipated $1 million state allocation for capital improvements clears litigation and makes it into district coffers.

Superintendent Dan Steska is encouraging teachers, administrators, custodians and others to submit their cost-saving ideas, and district employees have come forward with lots of good ideas.

By being frugal, the district hopes it can get back on firm financial footing. In the meantime, this is certainly a good-faith effort to get through the tough times. Voters will remember the district's efforts in August, when an operating expense tax levy could be on the ballot.

People are more likely to give money to those who are trying to help themselves.