EFFORT TO INSPIRE STUDENTS IS RECOGNIZED

Over the next couple of weeks, area students will return to classrooms. Getting kids to school is one challenge. Keeping them there is an even bigger job.

The Cape Girardeau NAACP is working to inspire young people to stay in school. Its "Back-to-School/Stay-in-School" program was recently recognized by the national organization.

The program earned one of only eight national NAACP awards selected from a pool of 1,700 similar programs. Local organizers were recognized for their "unwavering commitment to the education and social development of young people in Cape Girardeau."

The program last August was keynoted by a Sikeston physician who inspired many of the participants about the importance of education. An impressive 225 students and 88 parents attended the overnight event. The local chapter plans a smaller program this fall.

The national recognition is a well-deserved pat on the back for local efforts to help students stay in school.