Melody Jackson is truly inspiring.
At Reeltown High School in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, there is a student who has a valuable lesson to teach about selflessness and working towards a common goal.
Jackson, unfortunately, is facing a terminal illness. She is suffering from an aggressive and uncommon type of cancer that, according to doctors, has left her with only a few days to live. In light of her situation, Make-a-Wish Alabama approached her and granted her the opportunity to fulfill a wish. This wish was meant to bring joy and happiness into her life during these challenging times.
She made the decision to do something positive.
Jackson expressed her desire to purchase band uniforms for her school, as reported by colleague, Rebecca Griesbach.
It’s not about going to Disney World or receiving a visit from a high-flying celebrity.
Band uniforms are an integral part of any marching band performance. These outfits not only serve as a visual representation of the band’s identity but also play a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance. They are designed to create a sense of unity and professionalism among the band members, allowing them to stand out and be easily recognized by the audience. Band uniforms are carefully chosen to reflect the style and theme of the band’s music, incorporating colors, patterns, and accessories that complement the overall aesthetic. From traditional military-inspired designs to modern and innovative styles, band uniforms are a key element in creating a visually captivating and cohesive performance.
In a remarkable act of generosity, she selflessly donated her dying wish to her fellow students. Her wish was to use the funds to cover the expenses that should be considered basic necessities for every student.
Jackson’s sacrifice serves as a testament to the remaining goodness in the world.
However, there may not be enough remaining in Montgomery.
Jackson, who is just 16 years old, serves as a true inspiration for all of us to strive for better. It is crucial for Alabama lawmakers to take her valuable lesson to heart.
Alabama is not a poor state incapable of affording such things on its own. The decision to not invest in these matters was made by our elected officials on our behalf.
Alabama had enough funds to purchase band uniforms or cover various other additional costs associated with operating schools.
We simply didn’t.
Last year, the Alabama Legislature convened in Montgomery with a rare problem on their hands – they had extra money. In 2022, Alabama had actually collected more funds than it had spent on education.
Surprisingly, it ended up being an additional $2.8 billion.
Special interest groups eagerly sought to secure their own share of the benefits, prompting Governor Kay Ivey to readily oblige a few of her preferred choices.
She proposed $25 million for a water park in Montgomery.
An additional $100 million was allocated for prison construction, adding to the existing billion-dollar funding already provided from the General Fund.
Ivey suggested allocating $300 million of education funds for non-educational purposes.
Alabama lawmakers deserve credit for their response to Governor Ivey’s shopping list. As soon as it was made public, they quickly scrapped it and created their own. Instead of allocating hundreds of millions of dollars towards non-education expenses, they prioritized tax cuts.
Alabama lawmakers have approved a tax rebate of $150 for individuals and $300 for couples, using the surplus funds.
You might have noticed your arrival in the past month or two.
Was it worth it?
Education is often touted as being “fully funded,” but the reality is that it falls short. This is made evident by the heartbreaking story of Jackson, who had to express her dying wish to her friends in the high school marching band. If education were truly adequately funded, such situations would not arise.
She had the opportunity to do something nice for herself.
We had the opportunity to do something nice for her.
There is still an opportunity, not just for her, but also for her friends and other students in Alabama schools.
Alabama is once again experiencing a surplus in tax revenue, surpassing its budgeted amount. As lawmakers convene next month, there will be an additional $2.2 billion available for spending on education.
Lawmakers need to be reminded that education dollars are intended for education, and if we fail to do so, they may repeat the same mistake or, even worse, divert the funds towards another prison. It is crucial that we advocate for the proper allocation of resources to ensure quality education for all.
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Jackson’s heartwarming story should ignite a fire within us.
Under Kay Ivey’s leadership, Alabama has experienced significant progress and development.
The Alabama Legislature has authority over this matter.