One dreaded word has become feared throughout public schools systems in Alabama during the past few years — proration.

A loss in tax revenue due to the poor economy has forced legislators to make budget cuts in several programs, including public schools.

Cutting school funding is not a popular solution and the state legislature has tried to cut as little money as possible, but schools still worry about having enough teachers and books to educate an ever growing student population.

Several residents of Franklin County have recognized this problem and have pitched in to help the county school system by volunteering time to complete projects the school would have to contract out otherwise.

In Phil Campbell the alumni association set aside time to help mulch flower beds, pull weeds and perform other landscaping duties.

Tharptown employees spent some of their spare time painting hallways, waxing floors and taking care of other minor maintanence.

These are just two examples of several projects going on at the county schools.

Residents across the county are stepping up to help out local schools. This sacrifice and community spirit will benefit students for years to come.

By saving a few dollars on landscaping or painting, schools can focus on their task — educating children — instead of worrying about pinching pennies.