Proud of Scott City high schoolers

To the editor:

In regard to the Aug. 1 story on "How schools scored": I want to say how proud I am of the Scott City High School students for their success on meeting the adequate yearly progress. The students met all requirements in communication arts, math, graduation rate and attendance rate. I am extremely proud of all of you. I am thankful and honored to have been your high school principal for the past five years.

One thing that I do find disheartening, though, is that I have not received one phone call from the Southeast Missourian. It's amazing to me how my phone, even at home, over the past five years has rung off the hook when the story could have a negative impact on me, our students or our school, but let it be a very positive story and you don't give us any chance to give our viewpoints in regard to the success of our students. I find this unprofessional. It's sad that our society feeds off negative news and happenings, as do some of the people in my profession.

To our students at Scott City High School, congratulations and keep working hard at making our school a school of making a difference in people's lives. To the board of education, I hope people are watching us. Once again, we are proud of our students.

KERRY THOMPSON, Director, Alternative School, Scott City High School