Editorial Columns Archive

Lincoln Parish great place for kids
Elizabeth DeGrie, Staff Writer
09-01-2010

I don’t have any children. In fact, I’m not even planning on having them anytime in the next several years (though I realize that sometimes these sorts of things don’t always work out the way we have planned.)

Mostly, I’m focused on working, finishing up a couple of graduate school classes and planning my wedding for May. However, I’ve lived in Lincoln Parish for almost four years now and I have to say I’m impressed by the area.

As a reporter, I’ve had the opportunity to have a peek at several programs geared toward the children and teens of Lincoln Parish. To be frank, I’m quite jealous.

Both the Lincoln Parish School System and the Lincoln Parish Library (as well as many other organizations I haven’t had the opportunity to work with) work very hard for the children in the area. I am continually impressed with the positive opportunities children and teens have to both learn and have a good time.

Education has always been a high priority in my own life, and I can almost guarantee you won’t find a writer who doesn’t love to have their nose buried in a book on a lazy, rainy (or sunny) afternoon. But, growing up I never felt like anyone had the genuine passion that local teachers, administrators and library personnel have for improving children’s lives.
I often find myself wishing that I were a few years younger so I could enjoy the teen programs at the library or engage in the countless other exciting programs in the area.
I’m not saying that it’s all peaches and cream. I’ve heard parents complain about various aspects of different programs for their children and teens. But, that too is a blessing. Many parents here seem far more engaged in the educational experience of their children (though, I must say my own mother held her own when it came to involvement in my life — perhaps that’s why I value the parents who take the time to care.)

I’m just saying that at least a couple of programs in the past few months have made me proud to call myself a resident of Lincoln Parish.

The Lincoln Parish Library’s summer reading program — which had activities for all ages — was a huge success, and I’ve personally never seen such a big group of teens excited about spending the summer in the library (and making plans to spend more time there.)
Additionally, last week’s Back-to-School Bash at the Civic Center made a great impression on me.

I wish there were teachers and administrators as devoted to children all over the country. I think programs like this would solve a lot of the ills of the world.

Several years ago, my younger cousin told us that her elementary school teacher had told the class that she was only there for the paycheck. It took my cousin several years to regain any mild interest in learning. I remember that story because it still hurts my heart that someone who was entrusted with our most precious resources abused them in such a way.

Lincoln Parish is very blessed. I urge parents and children to recognize what a jewel they have and to take full advantage of the resources offered by getting involved. Let’s make sure the area continues to offer these things for future generations.