1880

Richard C. Norton becomes the fourth principal, serving in this capacity through 1893. Under his administration, the curriculum was enhanced to better prepare teachers, a postgraduate degree was added, a student code of conduct was established, student enrollment increased, and the school began to stabilize. While Norton was principal, the title of principal was changed to president.

Louis Houck creates his own rail line, the Girardeau Railway Comapny, running trains from Cape Girardeau to Delta, Missouri. He kept building and eventually was responsible for about 500 miles of railroad lines runnning throughout southeast Missouri.

1881

Student conduct regulations are established. Studying for all students began at 8:30 a.m. in the Normal building. Evening study hours were from 6-9 p.m. during the first, second and third terms, and from 7-9 p.m. during the fourth term. The code also prohibited frequent visiting of other students’ rooms, “lounging about town during study hours and all unnecessary gallantry.” Also prohibited were profane language, going to a saloon or billiard hall, attending parties that deterred from schoolwork, drinking alcohol, and using tobacco in or around the Normal building.