We want to take a moment today to sit back and reflect on the good work and cooperation among educators, the business community and local government.

We really are more fortunate than many. Our community is working together to prepare us for the future. That should make us all happy.

Some of those good things might not pay us dividends for 20 years or more. However, the work of so many is laying a foundation for a healthy, prosperous community to come.

Take a look at the Leader in Me program under way in several Vicksburg Warren schools and set to expand to others in coming months. That program would not be possible without the leadership of a strong Chamber of Commerce and participation from its membership.

Recently, we ran a photo of a Bowmar six graders presenting the gift of a bench to the school as a legacy the class is leaving for future generations. The sixth graders’ mission statement is also included on a plaque to serve as a reminder of the things those students have focused to achieve this year.

Think back for a moment. Did your sixth grade class have a mission statement? That’s pretty impressive.

In Wednesday’s newspaper, we presented a story on a class of 20 or so LPN students at Hinds Community College Vicksburg campus, who won five of the seven categories in an annual competition presented by the Mississippi of Licensed Practical Nurse Association.

The enthusiasm and pride of those students in what they have learned and accomplished is infectious. As a community, we should be proud, too, because these well-trained LPNs are available to go to work right here at home, caring for our family members and loved ones.

The Vicksburg Warren Schools, Hinds Community College Vicksburg and Alcorn State’s expansion are all working together and teaming up with those in the business community and with city and county government to make certain students are being trained in occupations needed right here at home.

Education is about much more than preparing for a job, but we all know we must prepare our students in a way that they will be in a position to fulfill whatever career goal they may have.

The pride of Hinds LPN student Brieu Madison about her team’s success in the state competition sums it up well. “So, yes, we got it going on.”

Yes, we in Vicksburg do have it “going on.” And we have the leadership of our schools, city, county and business community to thank for it.