Progressive thinking keeps region moving forward

Led by the progressive thinking of the Jasper Higher Education board, the youth of this region may have another option to consider upon graduating high school.

The board, which is led by Karen Kipp, is in the process of applying for an Economic Development Administration grant that would fund Phase II of the Jasper Teaching Center.

The second phase would concentrate on vocational trades such as welding and construction for high school students.

If the grant were approved, a $1.8 million dollar building would be constructed next to the present building on Bulldog Avenue and FM 252.

Students, who in previous years that didn't attend college, will now have an option when it comes to securing a solid future in this county.

Through in-kind services from the city of Jasper and Jasper County, the project has a strong foothold in its application process. The Jasper Economic Development Corporation also took a strong step in helping the project by agreeing to fund $200,000 of matching funds needed for the project.

This type of progressive thinking is what this community needs more of. Jasper has long been considered a hub for Southeast Texas - this secures that title.

If this project comes to fruition, it will not only help the industries looking to relocate to the Jasper area but will definitely fill a void with high school students who in the past had slipped through the college cracks.