SUPPORT FOR SCHOOLS IS GOOD REASON FOR COMMUNITY PRIDE

There is good reason for a new mood of optimism in Cape Girardeau today. The spell of defeats at the polls for school improvements has been broken. An ambitious plan to build new schools, modernize others and bring the district's level of education up to today's technology -- and into the future too -- was given strong backing in Tuesday's election.

The beneficiaries, of course, will be future students who can look forward to an up-to-date learning environment second to none in this area, perhaps in the entire state of Missouri. In addition to adequate facilities, these students will have access to the latest equipment of this technological age. They will have opportunities to learn the skills needed in an ever-changing society.

Teachers and administrators will also be able to take advantage of the latest and best tools to give students a first-rate education.

Parents will, thanks to their support in the voting booth and as taxpayers, be able to show their pride in a first-rate school system that will give their children every educational advantage.

Business and industry leaders will point to the Cape Girardeau school system as a model, one that weighs what the community wants its public schools to be, and then delivers.

There is little doubt that economic development will see the fruits of a well-planned effort to put Cape Girardeau's school system on the map. Prospective employers and those thinking of expansion will take stock of any community that makes a bold commitment to providing the best schools possible.

There have always been good reasons to be proud of Cape Girardeau's school. Its students consistently rank high on achievement tests and are admitted to the nation's best colleges and universities or go on to productive and rewarding careers. Its teachers are known for their dedication and commitment to the enterprise of molding young minds into clear-thinking citizens of tomorrow. Administrators and board members have unified in their efforts to make the best educational opportunities available to students -- and that focus can never be overstated or taken for granted.

Now, with the community's solid support for the facilities and programs of a first-class school district, the foundation of pride of and support for the public schools had been immeasurably broadened and fortified.

Cape Girardeau's distinction as the keystone city on the Mississippi River between St. Louis and Memphis has been increased, thanks to voters who saw the need, worked out a plan and gave their support. The city's reputation -- as a medical hub, as a regional retail center, as a major employer, as the home of a truly fine university and as a good place to live and work -- has been significantly enhanced by crossing a major hurdle.

This community has a right to be proud of itself, now and for the future.