Students deserve space

To the editor:

"Miss Cracraft, can I do a presentation to show some of the elements of the layout program to the newer journalism students?"

A teacher might correct a student's grammar at that request, suggesting "may" instead of "can" and then moving on to give assent to this awesome request. However, in the environment my publications students have, "can" is the correct word. The physical limitations of the room restrict us from utilizing multimedia presentations that would help instruction. The arrangement of the room works for the independent tasks that often accompany publications and journalism work, but it is not conducive for lecture and cooperative learning.

My students deserve to be better prepared for post-high school. When I have to limit instruction because of the environment, they are not receiving that preparation. Anyone can look at the publications my students create and see that they are outstanding. The fact that we can produce these quality works with the resources we have speaks volumes. But the students deserve a better physical space to prepare them for the future.

The bond issue next Tuesday is not for teachers, administrators or even current students. It is to help create a better community. It is to enable our progressive faculty to fully differentiate instruction, leading to successful graduates -- a large percentage remain in the community and contribute to business and industry.

I am confident Jackson voters will continue showing pride by supporting the education of their children by voting yes on the bond issue.

KARA CRACRAFT, Jackson