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Candidates answer questions about schools

By Debby Woodin dwoodin@ Joplin voters will have four candidates to choose from in the April 8 election to fill two seats on the Joplin Board of Education. The Globe asked each of the candidates to answer a set of questions about the school district and its offerings. This is the first of four responses obtained from the candidates, who are Thomas Ross, an engineer; Lori Musser, a former board member and the academic success coach and coordinator of disability services at MSSU; Derek Gander, a former board member who owns a home inspection business; and incumbent David Weaver, accounting and finance professor at Pittsburg State University. Q: What strengths do you feel Joplin Schools offer students, parents and the Joplin community? Thomas Ross: 'Joplin Schools have many strengths, particularly the commitment to providing a well-rounded education for all students. 'One of the key strengths I see is the district's emphasis on both academic and extracurricular opportunities. With strong programs in STEM, the arts, and athletics, students have opportunities to excel in a variety of fields. 'Additionally, Joplin Schools have a supportive community of parents, educators and local businesses that work together to enhance student outcomes and opportunities. I am also proud of the district's commitment to providing a safe environment, which is essential for fostering academic success.' Lori Musser: 'Joplin Schools offer numerous strengths to students, parents and the community, many of which constituents may not be fully aware of. For instance, the district provides a variety of alternative and diverse academic programs. Programs such as Advanced Placement and Dual Credit allow students to earn college credits, often enabling some students to graduate high school with an entire year of college or even an associate degree already completed. 'Another notable strength of Joplin Schools is the Franklin Technology Center (FTC), which offers trade programs that prepare students for the workforce after graduation. Additionally, Joplin Schools has established several collaborative relationships with local industries and academic institutions, providing students with firsthand experience and knowledge of potential career opportunities or post-secondary education. I believe that Joplin school students are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen endeavors due to the diversity of these programs. 'Furthermore, the district offers many other strengths, such as early childhood programs, capital improvements at some elementary schools, and numerous opportunities for community and parental collaboration through committee participation. Joplin Schools excel in seeking feedback and input from students, parents and the community through these collaborative opportunities.' Derek Gander: 'I believe that Joplin offers a learning environment that benefits our students with awesome facilities and phenomenal staff. While I do believe we have room to grow, we have a solid foundation to work with.' David Weaver: 'Joplin Schools first and foremost have excellent and dedicated teachers who truly care about our students. We have taken good care of our buildings and are working toward providing the same level of facilities for all students. Our high school is large enough to offer many options for career-based to college-bound students. Our size allows us to offer a greater variety in each subject area as well as many electives to give students a chance to test out several career possibilities.'