Piano presented to Ashdown school

The Margaret Daniel Educational Foundation at the Ashdown School District has purchased a baby grand piano for students to showcase their talents during the lunch hour.

The piano will be available for use for community and school events in the Ashdown High School cafeteria.

“Since its arrival a few weeks ago, students, community members and staff members have shared their talents and provided music to the open area in our school,” Principal Kay York said.

“Our wish is for many students to continue to develop an appreciation and love for music. Some students are now taking lessons after hearing others play.”

Superintendent Casey Nichols said, “We are so excited to have such a wonderful gift placed in the cafeteria for our staff and students to showcase their musical talents.”

The Margaret Daniel Educational Foundation supports the Ashdown School district with grants that fund “over the top” ideas and opportunities for the students, the staff said.

Many teachers and staff members have received funds to challenge students and provide materials that are beyond what local, state and federal monies provide. Some of the grants have gone toward drums at the elementary school, butterfly gardens, writing training for teachers at Columbia University, materials for the high school art department, engineering equipment for robots and programs at the elementary school.