South Point Elementary had many visitors on Friday morning, as the school dedicated its new reading pavilion next to its playground.

Invited guests included representatives from the South Point Lowe’s, local contractor Drew Gibson of Superior Hardware and Remodeling, as well as students from Collins Career Technical Center.

The multi-use pavilion was built in the spring, after administrative assistant Bill Christian received a grant from Lowe’s as part of its “Toolbox for Education” program.

Justin Wurtzler, manager of the store, put Christian in touch with project specialist Jordan Gann, who helped him work out details for the project.

Gibson oversaw construction, which was aided by the Collins students. Roofing was provided by Shield Roofing of South Point.

At last week’s event, the school thanked all involved who made the large pavilion possible.

In addition to the pavilion, the playground has also seen the installation of a “buddy bench,” installed thanks to funds from Girl Scout Troop 7497 of Proctorville, who have used proceeds from cookie sales to do the same for school’s across the region.

The pavilion project worked out so well for South Point that nearby Burlington Elementary has applied for and received its own grant. Plans for their structure are underway and construction is expected for spring.

Beginning with Christian and continuing with all who joined to assist the school, the additions to the school were a community project and all should be thanked for their dedication and work.

The grant program from Lowe’s is an excellent source of funding to guarantee that Lawrence County students will have top facilities.