The Selma Times-Journal

It&8217;s parents like Tomeka Bethel who make the difference at Edgewood and other schools in the Selma City School System.

Principals and local officials at the Selma City Schools Annual Federal Programs Advisory Meeting honored Bethel and numerous others on Thursday. The parents were commended for their commitment to their children&8217;s education and for coming to the schools, not because there is a problem, but because they care.

Nivory Gordon and his wife, Rachel, were also recognized for their involvement at Payne Elementary.

Gordon said he tries to be a mentor, not only to his children, but also to other children who need a parental figure.

Local leaders offered words of encouragement after a musical performance from the Selma High School choir.

Selma Police Chief William T. Riley III encouraged parents to tell their children when they are wrong, as to help deter them for a life of crime.

Probation officer Cecil Hopkins concurred with Riley, as he has seen many youths go astray because of a lack of parental involvement.

Hopkins said parents don&8217;t ask for help because they don&8217;t want the neighbors to know all is not well in their households.