ANDERSON IS IMPRESSED WITH R-2 SCHOOL DISTRICT

Dr. Ron Anderson, new Jackson R-2 superintendent of schools, has so far backed up his words with actions.

"I plan to do a lot of listening and a lot of visiting," Anderson told teachers and other guests at a public reception Tuesday. "You'll see me in the buildings a lot and out in the community a lot."

While in town Anderson not only met and listened to dozens of Jackson Community Teachers' Association members and others, he also saw JHS top 10 percent students speak at a noon Rotary meeting and later dropped in at a Chamber of Commerce monthly "After Hours" get-together.

"I still get excited about starting at a new school," said the former Liberty superintendent, who has been working for the Missouri School Board Association the past four years. "We've been very impressed with Jackson. People here are so friendly and helpful. I'm looking forward to working with people down here. I've heard good things about the school district."

The Andersons' house sold earlier this month and Anderson should be in position by June 1. Dr. Howard Jones, retiring superintendent, will still be on hand to work on special projects, into the summer.

The Andersons have three children. One will graduate from high school this month, while the other two teach school. They have one grandchild.

"From what I'm seen you're facing the conflicts of growth and expansion. That's much more positive than being in a community that's declining," Anderson told the guests. "I've never been in that type of situation, but I've had several friend who were."

In fact, Anderson presided over a growth boom at Liberty that has been compared strongly with Jackson's current situation.

"People today want choices. Fortunately you're a strong school district," Anderson said. "A lot of people are moving to Jackson because of the schools. When people leave a community because of the schools, it's hard to reverse that trend."

Anderson praised Jones and Howard Alexander for their helpfulness during his half-dozen visits to Jackson. He said school board members were also helpful. What Anderson has seen of R-2 students has perhaps impressed him even more.

"I'm excited. I got to see the top 10 percent of the senior class at the Rotary banquet," he said. "If you can't get goose bumps from that, you shouldn't be in education. You should be proud to see how sharp they are. You need to pat yourselves on the back."

Anderson said he believes in a "balanced program" of academics activities, athletics and "strong business partnerships."

"We want to keep the traditions that have worked well for many years," he said. "In the mean time as we continue to grow, we'll keep getting new people and new ideas. Our challenge is to continue the good results."