So many times, we hear about the struggles of Black Belt area students. We hear discussions about low test scores and failure to make Adequate Yearly Progress. It paints a dim picture of our educational system.

When our systems go out of their way to correct these problems before they can begin, they also deserve praise.

By the end of the month, Selma City Schools, Dallas County Schools and the Selma-Dallas County Public Library will have worked together to issue library cards to every first grade student they could bus in to downtown Selma.

First-grade students have come to the library by the dozens in n effort to hook them on reading early in their academic careers. This program works on so many levels.

First of all, giving these students their own card gives them, a sense of independence. It is one of the first things in their lives that is totally theirs. It makes them feel “all grown up.”

They will jump at the chance to use the card because it is a process they can complete all by themselves.

By bussing the students in, they also have the opportunity to explore the library.

Unfortunately, as director Becky Nichols pointed out, these students might not always have access to the library because their parents are at work, or their families might not have a mode of transportation to get them to the building.

For some first-grade students, this will be their first trip to the library. Hopefully, it will not be their last.

The excitement on the faces of the fist-graders Tuesday said it all.

They couldn’t wait to get their hands on a book and use the card. They were hooked before they ever cracked their first book.

Though it is no guarantee that this program will cause test scores to spike and AYP goals to be met, it is a good start. Those who  support the program deserve a pat on the back.