There’s little hiding the fact that we have been critical of the Selma City Board of Education’s decision to build a new Selma High School during tough economic times and a time when school budgets are growing increasingly tighter.

We questioned their decision to add $20 million in new debt, even if it was much needed at this time; and there was little argument the old Selma High School had fallen into a state of disrepair.

But with the news Wednesday that school leaders have been working hard to partner with local company Henry Brick to provide the brick for the new school, our disapproval was somewhat curbed. We still believe the system will be faced with financial challenges not even they can forecast in the coming months, but school leaders should be commended and thanked for their effort to make this school a project that has deep roots in the community even before the first bell rings.

Governmental bodies, such as the school system, must always abide by state bid laws when spending money, signing contracts and awarding projects. And, at times, local contractors and suppliers are simply not able to provide the best price when bidding on work. But, the fact that Henry Brick is so close to landing this contract is good news, not only for them and their employees, but this community as a whole. As we have said, Selma has a lot to offer and it’s time we started to stand up and show it.