Middlesboro Independent Schools has recognized students whose art contributions are part of a new local history book for children.

“Many thanks to Ann Matheny and Heather Parks for allowing our school district to be a part of this project,” Superintendent Waylon Allen said. “Also, thanks to Callie Boyd and Johnanna Baker for assisting in the completion of the book.”

Students Brandy Aker, Shelby Vaughn, Haley Anderson, Madilynn Jackson and Cory Evans were recognized during a meeting Monday night.

The students’ artwork was included in local history coloring and activity books that are part of a project being launched by the Bell County Historical Society.

The purpose of the local history books is to teach children about the history of Bell County in an interesting and entertaining manner.

Fourth-grade students in Bell County will receive the books thanks to a grant received from the Kentucky Local History Trust Fund and donations from Historical Society members.

According to the Bell County Historical Society, the fourth grade was chosen because that is when students begin studying Kentucky history.