An open forum at Jackson High School Monday evening gave school board candidates a chance to offer their views on current issues affecting the school district.

The American Business Women's Association sponsored the forum, during which the five candidates vying for two vacancies on the school board took the stage at the high school auditorium to answer five questions submitted by community members.

Candidates were given two minutes to speak about their background and reason for running, and one minute to answer each question. While only around 30 people attended the event, candidates said it was still a good opportunity to express their opinions.

"I'm impressed with the candidates here," said incumbent Brent Wills. "Their hearts are all in the right place. No matter who wins, the district will be in good shape."

A reflection of the war in Iraq, one of the biggest issues addressed at the forum was school security and bus safety.

"I think we're on the right track," said Wills. "We have a safety plan in place. There are always certain things you can't foresee, but we've planned for those things that could happen."

'Think outside the box'

Candidates were also asked how they proposed to fund specific programs in light of state budget cuts.

"I think the school district will have to think outside the box, become creative in their spending," said candidate Cathy Goodman. "We may have to do more fund raisers for extracurricular activities."

Ideas concerning a new high school were also addressed. All of the candidates stated that renovating and expanding the present high school campus was the most plausible solution, as opposed to building a completely new facility at another site.

"We have a tremendous investment in this campus," said candidate Fred Jones. "It's something we wouldn't want to walk away from."

Incumbent Mark Baker said he felt the district needed to find a solution to last for the next 20 years, and then consider building a new facility.

"We need to come up with a practical, short-term solution plus a long-term goal that may or may not include this campus," said Baker.

The final question asked candidates what their primary concern for education was.

"Updating technology is my biggest concern," said candidate Scott Wren. "Students are our future leaders, and we need to give them the tools to lead us into the future with confidence."

Jackson resident Donna Tidwell was among the few who ventured out to hear what the candidates had to say.

"They all have good ideas, and I know they all have the best interest of kids at heart," said Tidwell. "I just wish more people had attended, because it was a good opportunity to hear their views."

cclark@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128

Voting information

Voting for Jackson School Board candidates will take place from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 8.

There are 18 voting locations for the race, including First Baptist Church of Jackson, New McKendree United Methodist Church, Cape Girardeau County Court House, American Legion Hall, Jackson Jaycee Community Center, Cape Girardeau Fire Station No. 2, Millersville Masonic Temple and Missouri Conservation Department.