Vicksburg Warren School District Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Duran Swinford is taking it to the parents.

Now it’s the parents’ turn to meet her halfway.

Swinford, the newly hired leader of the 9,000-student district, began a three-part “Listen and Learn” campaign on Wednesday evening. The goal: To get parents and administrators to meet in small groups to discuss problems and solutions within the school district.

The fact that fewer than 20 showed up should not hamper Swinford’s program. It should be a springboard for the next scheduled meeting, on Monday at 5:30 p.m. at Sherman Avenue-Warren Central Intermediate cafeteria.

“My intent is not to address anything today, but just to listen and learn because we want to listen to the community,” Swinford said Wednesday night.

Quality schools are a direct reflection of the community that supports them. Swinford, and other school administrators, are taking their concerns to the community in hopes of opening a dialogue to success.

Now it is the parents’ turn to join Swinford in making this school district the envy of districts statewide. There is a long way to go.

As the time-tested saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Certainly every concern from every parent will not be solved in a day. Solving the district’s problems will take time and effort.

The new superintendent has taken the first step in drumming up support from the community. Now the responsibility lies with the parents.

The majority of phone calls received in this newsroom are dealing with concerns in education. The concerns are valid.

Now there is a new outlet for all concerned with education. The Listen and Learn campaign has the potential to be a raving success.

Swinford is doing her part.

Now, the parents must do their part.