Letter to the editor:

On Saturday, May 23, 2009, the Laurel School District was faced with an unexpected tragedy that has left the district with many new hurdles to cross. The obstacles we now face are challenges that can and will be surpassed. Without the quick response of our local agencies and their willingness to be community servants, these challenges would have been far greater.

We are grateful that our city and county are filled with people who are willing to serve for the greater good of the community.

The Laurel Police Department, Laurel Fire Department, EMServe, Ellisville Fire Department, the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross, the volunteer fire coordinator and volunteer fire departments of Jones County are all appreciated.

On behalf of the Laurel School District Board of Trustees, I say thank you.

We are grateful for the firefighters’ service in battling the blaze at Jones Middle School and for those who provided support. Each person who responded is truly a hometown hero, and that is something worth celebrating!

— Glenn M. McGee, Ed.D.

Superintendent