Give a Gift program helps entire process

Public education is facing more challenges today than 20 years ago. There are more and more outside influences that challenge students away from the educational process.

With that in mind, unique programs are being developed across the nation in order to enhance the education process and keep the children interested in the task of education.

For the Jasper Independent School District, the Give a Gift program offers the business community a chance to help out the school district and by doing so, help out the community.

The program, which is modeled after the nationwide Donors Choice, matches donors' dollars towards projects in the local schools. Teachers submit projects and give descriptions how the money will be used and donors chose which project they wish to fund.

The donations are tax deductible as they are administered through the district's Jasper Public Schools Foundation, a nonprofit organization.

Donations to this program provide a win-win for all involved.

Projects that have already been turned in include reading and writing improvement centers for fourth graders at Parnell, language arts, math and history projects as well. One math project utilizes quilting as showing how math is used in everyday life.

There are many winners in this program.

First, the education process is greatly enhanced as the learning process is aided by the new programs. Second, the teachers receive a new tool in their education teachings. Third, businesses can feel they have aided the educational process for our future leaders. Fourth, the students reap the benefits of an expanding learning process.

The program almost faded away this year because of lack of support last year. It would be a shame if Jasper allowed that to happen.

Roses go to….

t Local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for being chosen by a national pro shop to stock their fish aquarium.

t Jasper's Bulldogs, who moved to 3-1 in district play with a win over Hamshire- Fannett.

t The clock tower at the Jasper County Courthouse. Drive by it at night and check out the lighted clock tower. Very nice.