The people of Jackson County demonstrated their support for the elementary school teachers who work in Jackson County by donating $2,261.47 to the 2011 Pennies for Pencils program. These funds more than doubled the amount generated last year. The money was raised through public donations into the canisters placed at over seventy retail locations throughout the county, through direct donations made by civic clubs, businesses, and individuals, and through corporate sponsorships through the Jackson County TIMES. To all we say a big "THANK YOU!!"

The amount given to each school varied since the donations in canisters in each community were credited to the elementary school in that community. All general proceeds were pro-rated among schools on the basis of the number of students attending each school. The checks were given directly to the school Principals, for distribution to the teachers. The amount per school was:

Malone Elementary $271.77; Cottondale Elementary $297.41; Grand Ridge School $143.87; Graceville Elementary $171.07; Sneads Elementary $257.03; Riverside Elementary $439.33; Golson Elementary $482.92; Hope School $ 69.44; Dayspring Christian Academy $128.57

The intended use of these funds is to enable teachers to provide needed school supplies for all children who arrive without everything they need. Children in the first, second, and third grades are given priority. The funds can also be used to provide needed classroom supplies or to enable teachers to sponsor special learning projects in their class.

Pennies for Pencils is unique because it reaches directly into the classroom, and touches the teachers and the students. Through this program, we can all help local education. We here at the TIMES are proud to sponsor this fund, and are very appreciative of the support we received from the citizens of the county, local civic organizations, and our corporate sponsors.