This week is an important one for senior high students hoping to graduate this year.

Seniors are getting their first shot of the year at the Alabama High School Graduation Exam. There is a lot riding on this test.

If a student cannot pass the test during the school year, the student does not get to graduate. If enough students don’t pass, the school can be placed on alert status and at risk of being managed by the state.

We ask that all parents of students taking the exam this week be fully supportive of their children. Students taking the test should be well-rested and well-fed. Parents should also boost the morale of their children by emphasizing the positives and motivating children to put forth their best efforts.

These tests are the biggest ones students have faced to date. These tests are just the beginning as students face tests in every aspect of adulthood. By passing these tests early on in the school year, students can concentrate on moving forward and learning what lies ahead.

We wish our students the best of luck during these exams.

When fire strikes, support is needed

By Staff Reports / Selma Times – Journal

The fire that gutted the Selma Sears store is an unfortunate incident that should draw the support of the community.

Fires and other interruptions of business happen. The effects of such depend largely on how the ownership responds and how the community responds. We have faith that the owners of our local Sears store will quickly re-organize and re-open their doors. They have said that is their intention.

The community should also support the store and offer help wherever possible. The local Sears store is a community asset and a place where many of us enjoy shopping.

We support the re-opening of the store and we support its owners as they struggle through a difficult time.