Polly Smith saw an opportunity four years ago and jumped. A program designed to teach children the value of etiquette came to Vicksburg and her son, then 7, took the course.

“When my son went through it, we were really impressed. Because my son was so young when he went through it, it shaped what kind of young man he is,” Smith said Tuesday in an article about the kickoff of the Mayor’s Youth Council Youth Leadership Core Training Program.

The program is offered to children ages 7 to 12 and 13-18. Students will attend classes and learn social and communication skills, self-esteem and confidence building, interviewing skills and table manners.

Smith was so sold on her son’s progress, she enrolled her young daughter. We certainly hope more mothers and fathers will follow suit.

It’s not difficult to notice what was once called “home training” is severely lacking in society — especially with the youths. Many are in one-parent, working homes. Many do not receive enough home training to make them competitive citizens in a global world.

Vicksburg Mayor Paul Winfield created the Mayor’s Youth Council after his election in 2008. He and the many people involved — giving time, money and facilities — should be lauded.

The youths are the future of this community. Transforming those youths into educated, productive members of society is imperative.

The City of Vicksburg has taken a large step with etiquette classes. They should be continued.