But right now, it's time for the spotlight to shine on student artists at Los Gatos High—and judging by their work, they deserve the opportunity to bask in the limelight.

Los Gatos art teacher Scott Downs, chairman of the visual arts department at the school, has worked with the Los Gatos Arts Commission through the years to provide his students with a venue for public exposure of their work. That venue is the Los Gatos Town Council chambers.

Students' work is on display through April 24 in council chambers, and we urge residents to stop by and check out the outstanding artwork created by these talented students.

This is more than an art exhibit. It's just further proof of the importance of the many educational opportunities offered to Los Gatos High School students. Students are encouraged to explore many avenues of learning while pursuing their education, whether that may be in the visual arts, the performing arts, speech and debate, robotics or even athletics.

Not only does participation in such programs contribute to the development of the well-rounded individual, it also provides each student the opportunity to explore his or her area of interest and expertise.

Because of the commitment of Los Gatos High School to its visual arts program and because of Downs' leadership, many students who may not excel in the academic arena can still realize their potential and discover the direction for their future.

And isn't that what the educational system should be all about?


Perfect place for fire bell

The town's historic fire bell could be going home—that is, if those who reside near the art museum on Tait Avenue agree to it.

The Los Gatos Town Council has reached a consensus and would like to display the bell in the building at Tait and Main, but the council has postponed voting on the issue until feedback is solicited from nearby residents.

The location seems perfect, given the historic overtones. The building was once a fire station, constructed in 1927 as the town's "modern firehouse." And the bell hung for many years at the corner of Main and University to signal firefighters in the event of a fire. Bringing them both together now would be a match of historical significance.

And the idea of having a bell in the downtown area that would ring at noon each day and on special occasions would only add to the charm of the town.

We encourage the neighbors in the Tait and Main area to be tolerant and support the council's proposal for the century-old bell. And we encourage the council to move ahead with this plan in the best interest of the town.

It's time for Los Gatos' historic fire bell to find its home.