Globe editorial praises Simpson tenure at R-8 schools

The Joplin Globe Editorial Board paid tribute to departing Joplin R-8 Superintendent Jim Simpson in an editorial just posted on the newspaper's website. In addition to noting improving test scores and the passage of the bond issue to build two new middle schools and almost completely refurbish a third, the Globe noted how Simpson took charge on the day of the Memorial Middle School shooting:

It was the October day in 2006 when Joplin experienced its first school shooting that we saw Simpson at his best. Simpson and his administrators adopted a full-disclosure policy that day, keeping the community abreast of details.

That day confirmed Simpson not only as an educator, but as a leader in the community.