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BY MELANIE HIGHSMITH

Nestled in the heart of Butler, Tennessee, there was a small community school. This was not just any school; it was the heart of the community, a beacon of learning and growth for the children who called this place home. The Little Milligan School was a charming, one-story brick building, with photos of past teachers hanging on the walls and children’s work displayed with pride, and a playground that echoed with laughter and joy. The principal and teachers were more than just educators; they were mentors, guides, and friends. The students, each unique and bright, were like a family. They learned together, played together, and grew together.

However, as the years passed, the cost of maintaining the school began to rise.” Despite the tireless efforts of the community, and the resolute staff, it was determined, “the financial burden of keeping the school open became too great.” With heavy hearts, the school board made the decision to shut down the small school.

The day the doors closed for the last time; a silence fell over the community. The playground stood empty, and the cheerful building seemed a little less bright. The children, who once attended its halls with excitement for each new day of learning, parents, and staff, have a void in their hearts. The tears of teachers, students and parents rolled down their cheeks like a waterfall. Everyone deeply felt the impact, especially a young girl with unique needs, named Makenna.

There is one devoted educator, who held sick children in his arms and gave them comfort until their parents arrived and who helped a special needs student with a rare genetic disorder fit right in and there was not any name calling or pointing out from other children that Makenna learned and responded differently. Makenna was just another child who came to her second home Monday through Friday. “Yeah, that was our school, and that educator is principal J.R. Campbell. Today was the first day of school at a new building and Makenna eagerly ran inside and asked, “where is JR?” I need to give him a hug!” When she could not find JR Campbell, she began to cry. 

I am sure Makenna was not the only child to shed tears today on the first day of school.

Parents and students grappled with the reality of sending their children to distant schools, losing the close-knit community feeling. The children missed J.R Campbell, their friends, their teachers, and the sense of belonging that Little Milligan School had instilled in them.

Yet, in the face of this adversity, the spirit of the community did not waver. They rallied together, supporting each other through this challenging time. Parents organized meetings, teachers offered support, and the community worked to keep the spirit of their beloved school alive. The story of this small community school is a testament to the resilience and unity of the community. It is a story of love, loss, and the unyielding spirit of a community in the face of adversity. Even though the school building has closed, the lessons it taught, the bonds it nurtured, and the memories it created continue to live on in the hearts of the community. This is the unique story of our school, Little Milligan.