The original Ironton High School still stands proud, solid mortar and stone, in the memories of many of its former students. Now, some of those actual bricks can be the foundation for the school’s future.

The Ironton City School District is selling bricks from the original structure that can be used as engraved keepsakes or become a part of the future in Tiger Alley.

This is a good way to blend the past with the future and give substance to some of the memories that were made in the venerable old building that served students from 1922 to 2007.

We are happy to see the district taking these steps, serving somewhat as a figurative olive branch for many in the community who hoped to see the old structure saved rather than replaced.

Plus the money raised will go toward athletic improvements, something that wasn’t part of the state or local tax levy funding.

Engraved bricks can be purchased for $50 each. The bricks that will become part of Tiger Alley cost $100.

People can also purchase a brick for themselves and one for Tiger Alley together for the cost of $125.

Order forms can be accessed at the district’s Web site, www.tigertown.com.

And while it didn’t make sense to spend millions more in tax dollars to rehabilitate the old building just for the sake of nostalgia, there is nothing wrong with trying to blend some of the character of Ironton’s past with its future.