Cathy Goodman

Cathy Goodman

Date of birth: July 28, 1958

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau

Spouse, children: Husband Tim Goodman; children Malerie Goodman, Spencer Goodman

Occupation: Registered nurse, patient advocate

Employer: Southeast Missouri Hospital

Businesses owned, all or part: None

Previous offices held or sought: Jackson School Board

What is the most important issue facing Jackson Public Schools?

In these tough economic times I would say finances. Finances are always a concern. The Jackson School District spends $6,779 per pupil while the Missouri state average is $9,338. Thanks to the committed faculty, this has not decreased the performance of our students. Jackson students continue to excel in many areas including academic, athletics, band, choral, FBLA, FFA and many more despite the amount that is spent per student. The other concern the school board is keeping an eye on is the facilities. Because of our growing pre-K program we are running out of room at the elementary levels. The district has already converted classrooms that had been designated for art, music, computers into regular classrooms. Art, music, and the computer lab are now on "wheels" roving from classroom to classroom. This scenario is working however it would be better if they could have their own designated rooms. I am not proposing that we build a new elementary tomorrow, it is just something that we need to continue to monitor for the sake of class sizes and what is best for student's learning environment.

What in your education or background makes you qualified for this office?

I have served on the Jackson School Board for the last six years, so I bring past experience. Prior to being elected to the school board I volunteered in many capacities from room mother, PTO president, member of PALS and RAVE, tutor volunteer that included assisting students assigned to the In School Suspension program. By serving in the various roles in the district this has allowed me to become familiar with the faculty and staff as well as the various programs that are offered by the district.

While working in the Quality Management Department at Southeast Missouri Hospital, I have assisted the hospital in complying with the many regulatory standards that are required. This knowledge crosses over into similar regulatory standards that the school district is required to meet.

Why are you better qualified than your opponent(s)?

I have served on the Jackson School Board for the last six years, so I bring past experience. Prior to being elected to the school board I volunteered in many capacities from Room Mother, PTO president, member of PALS and RAVE, tutor volunteer that included assisting students assigned to the In School Suspension program. By serving in the various roles in the district this has allowed me to become familiar with the faculty and staff as well as the various programs that are offered by the district.

While working in the Quality Management Department at Southeast Missouri Hospital, I have assisted the Hospital in complying with the many regulatory standards that are required. This knowledge crosses over into similar regulatory standards that the school district is required to meet.

I have the experience of serving on the board the past six years and the number of years that I have volunteered in the school district. This experience has taught me to look at all sides of issues that may arise. I look at issues not only from the perspective of a board member put also from a student, parent, faculty and staff member.

Also my passion. I am passionate that the school district stays true to its mission statement. I was involved several years ago in writing the mission statement. The mission is to "ignite the desire for learning and continuous improvement, graduating educated and responsible citizens." I want to make sure that Jackson School District continues its strong tradition of educating students that are prepared to face the real world. I want students to be able to face todays challenges whether it be at a four year university, community college, vocational and technical school, or the job force. I think that the school does a good job of preparing our students for life beyond high school and I want to make sure that this continues.

What is your opinion of how the school construction project has proceeded?

I am disappointed that we are behind schedule. The District will soon be letting bids for Phase II of the project. The Board is currently looking at ways this project will hopefully run smoother and the completion date will be on time.