Keith Simpson

Keith Simpson

Date of birth: Jan. 1, 1966

Place of birth: Cape Girardeau

Spouse, children: Wife Teresa Simpson; children Brooke, Mikah

Occupation: Bridge, grading and paving contractor

Employer: A.E. Simpson Construction Inc.

Businesses owned, all or part: A.E. Simpson Construction Inc.

Previous offices held or sought: Scott City School Board

What is the most important issue facing the Scott City School District?

The most important issue facing the district is student achievement. Increasing student achievement should always be the most important issue and the main focus of the district. Our MAP (Missouri Assessment Program) scores have been a major concern of the district, and we have implemented programs such as after school tutoring and after-school MAP practice. Both have been very well attended, and I fully expect our scores to increase due to the effort of our teachers and administration in implementing these programs.

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

As a business owner in construction contracting, I have obtained a valuable amount of experience in dealing with contracts, payrolls, budgets and all other aspects of running a business. The school district operates very similar to a business. In addition to my business experience, I also have three years experience as a school board member, along with 16 hours' board member training by the Missouri School Board Association.

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

I will not claim to be better qualified than any of my opponents; however, I do feel that my business experience has been a valuable asset in helping make decisions for the district. I am also a lifelong resident and graduate of the district.

Do you think bullying is an issue within the district? If so, what steps should be taken?

Bullying is an issue within the district. Bullying is a problem for school districts everywhere, not just within our district. Steps have already been taken to ease the bullying issues, including assemblies to inform students and staff of bullying issues and increased teacher presence in the hallways between classes and computer filters to prevent cyberbullying on the schools computers. I am a supporter of zero tolerance on bullying. Bullying was a problem when I was in school and was a problem when my parents were in school, but much of the bullying has changed with technology, such as text messaging and the internet, which can often be done anonymously. It will take a total effort from the administration, staff, and students to combat the bullying issues.