Community spirit thrives here

Cottonwood is booming along with the rest of the county. But, as a small community should, they have been guiding much of their own growth with a very “hands-on” approach.

The Cottonwood school district and the community aggressively sought funds through bonds and grants for a middle school.

The North Cottonwood Middle School has been built, furnished and now populated by students. All on schedule.

Their first day of classes was Monday, Jan. 22 and it went off without a hitch. Or, at least not any that were notable.

The middle school will bring together the third graders from East Cottonwood School and the fourth and fifth graders from West Cottonwood School. It will be a true “middle” school and opens up the school district for planned expansion.

The middle school concept is a great idea to help those students transition from an elementary school environment to a junior high atmosphere, then on to high school.

Although many times we think our kids are growing up faster than ever, they may hear the words and walk the walk, but seldom do they really understand the consequences of what they are doing until thrown into a situation they are unable to handle through inexperience.

Congratulations to the district and community for opening a new and important school that will benefit their community for many years to come.

Another important community-driven project in Cottonwood that is also note-worthy is the soon-to-be-completed library.

The grass-roots organizers will have a building they can definitely be proud of. Not only is it going to look nice, but it will be fully paid for — something not many communities can brag about today.

Cottonwood is truly the part of the South County that shows the genuine pioneer spirit of “Git ‘er done!”