New playground

The students of West Lane Elementary School in Jackson recently finished a two-year campaign to raise funds for new school playground equipment. In addition to selling cookie dough, funds were raised through candle and sucker sales as well as school fun days -- designated days when students could pay a dollar to wear stickers or hats for the day.

But this campaign did more than raise funds, it taught the students some important lessons.

School fundraisers are often seen as a hassle for parents, friends of parents -- who are often asked to make purchases for multiple campaigns -- and the community at large. But like so many worthy school fundraising causes, the students benefit from the actual fundraising experience.

When students approach a potential customer, they are given an opportunity to practice their communication skills. Having your child explain why the purchase is so important is a prime opportunity for them to learn valuable lessons in professionalism.

A comment by a parent of a West Lane Elementary student left in response to this story on semissourian.com also captured the giving spirit of our community. The parent thanked those who supported the playground campaign, noting that while purchasing a $15 tub of cookie dough or a $7 candle might not be a priority for most folks, the support given was appreciated. And saying "thank you" -- like this person did -- is a simple thing that means a lot to people.

Congratulations to the students on their fundraising success, and thank you to the community for once again being so generous.