Jane Busby is a familiar name in Cairo. Her roots run deep, stretching back to a time when her father, a Vietnam veteran and civil rights marcher, stood tall for what was right, helping to lay the groundwork for a more united Cairo. Today, Jane is building on that legacy, working as an administrative assistant at Cairo Elementary School, where she is surrounded by the people and places that have shaped her life.

Jane’s story is one of resilience, commitment, and a profound love for her community. “I have lived here my whole life,” Jane explains. Cairo is where her family grew, where she went to school, and where her own son now takes his first steps in education. Although a house fire in 2012 forced Jane to temporarily relocate to Cape Girardeau, it never really felt like home. “The atmosphere just wasn’t the same,” she says. “I missed Cairo.”

When the opportunity arose to work for Cairo Elementary, Jane jumped at the chance to return. And it wasn’t just any job—this was a role that allowed her to reconnect with the very teachers who had nurtured her as a student. “I went to Emerson and Bennett schools,” she recalls. “I had teachers like Miss Pam Carleton, who was my pre-K teacher, and Miss Neely, who taught here for years. It’s incredible to be back, working with the people who helped shape me.”

Jane’s return to Cairo has not only been about rekindling old connections but also about making a meaningful contribution to the future of the community. As one of two administrative assistants at the school, Jane is a familiar face to both students and staff, always ready to lend a hand. “I was nervous at first,” she admits. “But once I started, I knew this was where I was meant to be.”

That sense of belonging is crucial for Jane, especially after the challenges she faced. Having graduated from high school in 2012 after a disruptive move to Meridian, Jane understands the importance of stability and community. Now, working in a school that feels like home, she’s determined to ensure that the children of Cairo have the same sense of security and support that she longed for during her own school days.

But Jane’s dedication to Cairo runs even deeper. “I’ve watched this community rise and fall, and now it’s rising again,” she says with unmistakable pride. “What makes me most proud is our drive—the respect we have for our community and each other. It’s unmatched.” In a place where everyone knows each other, Jane feels a strong sense of duty to give back and contribute to Cairo’s resurgence. “Even if you’re not blood family, you’re still family here,” she explains. “We look out for each other.”

For Jane, this tight-knit support system is more than just comforting—it’s a driving force. “If the school is in trouble, parents step in to help. Teachers come together. It’s a true community effort,” she says. And for Jane, who is raising her son Lee’Andre.

In this environment, the knowledge that he’s surrounded by such care and kindness is invaluable. “When I drop my son off at school, I know he’s in good hands,” she says. “He loves it here. Every day, he comes home and tells me how amazing his day was.”

Lee’Andre’s experience at Cairo Elementary is a testament to the school’s emphasis on creating a nurturing environment. Jane is especially grateful for the early childhood education her son is receiving, recognizing how formative these years are. “I’m so glad he’s here, surrounded by teachers who care. I wouldn’t want him anywhere else,” she says. “Even when I’m not at work, I know he’s safe and happy.”

As Jane reflects on her journey back to Cairo, she speaks with admiration about her father’s legacy—a man who participated in civil rights marches and stood up for justice during some of the most challenging times in Cairo’s history. “My dad was brave,” she says with pride. “He was thrown out of establishments for standing up for his rights, but he never backed down.” His courage and commitment to the community live on in Jane, as she carries forward the same spirit of resilience and hope.

Jane’s role at Cairo Elementary may be behind the scenes, but her impact is undeniable. From helping teachers and students to ensuring the smooth running of the school, she’s an essential part of what makes the district thrive. “I feel like I’m exactly where I need to be,” she says. “This is home, and I want to do everything I can to help Cairo rise again.”

As Cairo continues its journey toward revitalization, Jane Busby is a shining example of the community’s strength and perseverance. With her heart firmly rooted in Cairo and her sights set on its future, she embodies the very spirit of this resilient town—a place where, no matter what challenges arise, the people stand together, ready to rebuild and renew.