SUPERINTENDENT LAUDS PRINCIPALS IN DRUG INCIDENTS

JACKSON -- A newspaper article about a Jackson Middle School student assaulted by her peers resulted in a flurry of phone calls -- most to the Southeast Missourian Speak Out line.

Many were critical of Jackson school district administrators, some were critical of the reporting and a few were critical of student Lindsay Siebert, who reported what she believed to be drugs in school.

Dr. Howard Jones, superintendent of Jackson schools, used the Jackson Board of Education meeting Tuesday as a forum to respond to the remarks.

He said there were three sides to the story: the Sieberts', the administrator's and the disciplined student's. However, because of confidentiality requirements, only one side could be published.

"Those who spoke out in criticism of the situation didn't know the facts," Jones said. "They used adjectives like `spineless administrators' and reinforced to students that people who are trying to keep peace -- school officials and the police -- are not credible and dependable."

On more than one occasion this year, Jones defended principals for decisions some thought were too strict, he said, adding that it was that kind of strictness among administrators that keeps Jackson schools at the high quality they are.

There were three drug-related incidents at Jackson Middle School this year, including the one involving Siebert. In that instance, the substance believed to be marijuana was dill seed, Jones said. On another occasion, a student brought oregano to school and represented it as marijuana.

The most recent instance involved a student who brought prescription sinus medication to school and told his peers they could get high on it.

All three students were suspended.

"It is serious stuff when you joke about drugs or weapons," Jones said. "These kids are growing up, they make mistakes in judgment and they pay the price."

In all three instances, other students reported the alleged drugs to Dr. Dan Beard, middle school principal. Jones said these students shouldn't be labeled "snitches," they are kids doing responsible things.

In response to the Siebert incident, Beard, the school counselor and the Drug Awareness Resistance Education officer will visit with groups of middle school students to tell them about school drug policy and the seriousness of joking about drugs.

In addition, Beard distributed a survey to middle school students on Tuesday. They were asked if there is a drug problem at the school, if they feel comfortable telling teachers about students doing wrong things and if they feel Jackson Middle School is a safe place.

Initial results showed most students feel safe at school and don't believe there is a drug problem. Complete results will be made available today, Jones said.

Board President Larry Koenig said he appreciated the way Jones has handled the drug-related incidents and thought the superintendent's openness about them was admirable.

JACKSON BOARD OF EDUCATION

Tuesday, March 12, 7:30 p.m.

Jackson Middle School Library

*Accepted proposed May calendar for high school seniors.

*Granted authorization to submit incentive grant applications.

*Reviewed results of the Future Business Leaders of America district contest.

*Received an invitation from Jackson Mayor Paul Sander.

*Assistant superintendent's report.

*Superintendent's report.