When the discussion of mismanaged funds is had, it is far too often centered on one level of our government or another. It is a discussion with which we have all become very familiar and, for the most part, a discussion we have come to expect.

But when that discussion is held in reference to our education systems, regardless of whether it is in the public school systems or at private schools, we become more sensitive and worried.

Unfortunately that discussion now involves a program whose core mission is to help dozens of pre-K children each and every year: the Selma Head Start program.

Earlier this year, the program that managed the funding for the local Head Start program, the Selma-Dallas Community Action and CDC, shut down because of “mismanagement of funds.”

That development and that poor management left the much-needed program in limbo and in search of an agency to work under. That’s where the Selma City School System and the Selma City School Board come in.

In a meeting scheduled for Monday, the Selma City School Board will likely discuss the idea of supporting the program and the program’s managing organization Central Alabama Child Development and Community Development Cooperative. If not, the board has also set aside time on Aug. 2.

Either way, the school board should be cautious in making a decision to pull the Head Start under its umbrella.

If they do so, it is our hope strong scrutiny is placed upon the financial means and well being at each opportunity.

Sadly, the school system is facing financial obstacles of their own and is operating barely above state guidelines.

It is for this reason that such a partnership should be made carefully and with all the numbers clearing in view.

There is a good chance Selma’s Head Start program will be given a new chance — a new life — it is just our hope those who manage the program don’t squander this chance.