Thorsby School this year has instituted “parental involvement meetings” in place of the typical parent-teacher organization used at most schools—and at Thorsby in the past.

The idea is an interesting one: instead of requiring membership in a club, why not invite anyone interested in school affairs to an open meeting? It’s too early—this week’s meeting will be only the second of the year—to determine whether this format will better serve the school, but those involved with the meetings are off to a good start.

At the meeting this week, scheduled for 6 p.m. at the school auditorium, Thorsby community members will have the opportunity to hear from the three candidates for Chilton County superintendent of education: Democrat Jason Griffin, Republican Dave Hayden and Independent Louise Pitts.

The candidates will visit Thorsby’s parental involvement meeting to take part in a forum. Audience members will submit questions through a panel, which will make sure the question is legitimate.

The superintendent hopefuls won’t know which questions are coming, which should make their responses especially telling. According to people in tune with the community, Thorsby parents and teachers want to know what is planned for their school, which is bursting at the seams as the county’s largest single campus.

Sounds like the meeting will be productive, and we hope that continues to be the case.

“We’re just trying to educate the community a little more about how schools are funded and how decisions are made,” Thorsby Principal Russ Bryan said.

As long as people show up like they should, Bryan’s goal is being accomplished.