School support

When fire recently destroyed the Fredericktown Middle School, officials scrambled to find temporary classrooms. Space at Calvary Temple Church has been pressed into service for the remainder of this school year, which ends May 28. A search is on to find space for classes this fall.

In addition to classrooms, the middle school also needed basic supplies. More than 50 individuals, clubs, schools, churches and businesses from throughout Southeast Missouri have responded by collecting books, papers, pencils and other school supplies for the Fredericktown school. "The support we've received from everyone is fantastic," said Dr. Kelly Burlison, superintendent.

Among the schools helping out are Jackson Middle School, Central Middle School in Cape Girardeau and Immaculate Conception School in Jackson.

Burlison said the donations have lifted the spirits of the Fredericktown school system and the community at large. "This has helped the morale of our kids, because people they don't even know are willing to help us. It makes you feel good there are people like that out there."

Whenever destructive events occur -- the Fredericktown Middle School fire was apparently deliberately set -- it is good to see how people who can help rise to the occasion. Hats off to all those who pitched in.