Members of the Poplar Bluff school community will soon have an opportunity to engage with the superintendent, become up to date on current events around the district and voice concerns regarding education in an environment where thoughtful dialogue is encouraged.
Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill will continue his community listening tour Tuesday at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library. The engagement will begin at 5:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Dill said he hopes to share his vision and passion for the district and, in turn, hear what his patrons have to say.
"The primary purpose of the event is to engage in a dialogue with the patrons of the district," Dill said. "As we immerse ourselves collaboratively in the work of educating the children of the community, I want to make sure our vision for moving forward is a shared vision."
Dill said he would like the forum to focus on the overall school environment and suggests anyone with a specific issue regarding a child or other private matter schedule an appointment to meet with him independently at his office.
Dill's first listening tour event was held during the summer at Wheatley School and was attended by nearly two dozen people. During the event, he spoke about his career in education, focusing on stories that apply to his current role at the helm of Poplar Bluff R-1 schools.
Dill also learned from the attendees that they'd like more opportunities to volunteer in the schools, opportunities to mentor kids, and are continuously concerned about bullying. Diversity among teachers was also discussed and the community provided suggestions on how Poplar Bluff schools can appeal to a more diverse applicant pool.
Dill said he will offer his perspective and opinion on various matters as questions are raised and ultimately hopes to learn something himself from the event.
"I want to hear success stories and I want to try and understand where we can improve," he said.
The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library is located at 318 N. Main St., and refreshments will be provided. To schedule a private appointment with Dill, call Poplar Bluff's central administrative office at 573-785-7751.