The Daily Leader was packed with positive news recently. Below is a look back at just a few of those good news stories.

• Mamie Martin Elementary topped the state average on an assessment of learning in pre-k and kindergarten. Mamie Martin kindergartners grew from a 487 score in the fall to an impressive 726 in the spring. The score was 16 points above the state average. Carey Wright, the state superintendent of education, said the state results validate the hard work of kindergarten teachers across the state who have successfully helped students build their foundational literacy skills.

“Reading instruction must remain a major focus through the third grade and beyond so that all children develop strong reading skills. Reading is the gateway to learning,” she said.

• The Brookhaven Little Theatre will reveal its upcoming season at a “Seize the Season” party at The Haven on West Cherokee Street  from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday with doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission into the reveal party is free, but a $5 donation at the door is suggested. Popcorn and water is complimentary before the show, as is a champagne toast and dessert bar after the show. BLTeens and the Haven Kids will perform excerpts from their recent musicals, “Grease” and “The Lion King.” The winners of the Haven Awards will also be announced at the party.

• Cpl. Seth Easterling with the Brookhaven Police Department was recently chosen as a Hometown Hero by the Chamber of Commerce and The Daily Leader. “I just enjoy serving the community and fighting crime,” Easterling said.  “I have a passion for helping to make Brookhaven a better town to live in.”

Easterling, 35, is a resident of Wesson.  He is the son of Irving and Susan Easterling.  He has two sons, Sawyer, 7; and Shawn, 6.  He has been a member of Easthaven Baptist Church for more than eight years. “I’ve always enjoyed helping people and the public, and I just wanted to serve my community,” he said.

• The Brookhaven Academy Lady Cougars have had success on both the softball and soccer field this week. The soccer team defeated Hattiesburg 5-3 Tuesday. “The girls played a great game offensively,” Cougars coach Mark LeBlanc said. “We kept the pressure on Hattiesburg the whole 80 minutes.”