Fairview Elementary School earned some extra bucks to start its school year.

The school won a little more than $2,000 in the Big Lots Lots2Give video competition, in which participating schools across the country submitted short videos and brief essays explaining why their schools needed financial support.

Fairview Elementary Principal Naomi Cobb and FES administrators were presented with an in-store ceremonial check for $2,382.23 yesterday morning at Big Lots on U.S. Highway 278.

Fairview’s video entry sought funding for a "sensory room" to help students filter out bothersome sights, sounds and scents so they can focus on learning.

"This will be a special area in our school where students who struggle with sensory development can go for brain-strengthening therapy," said media specialist Matt Osborn in a news release from the Newton County School System.

"All people have sensory issues sometimes. However, some are more sensitive than others. A sensory room will help students filter out distractions and adjust to their environment so that they can get back to the business of learning. The money will be used to purchase specialized lighting and multisensory equipment to make a space that is both calming and therapeutic."

Cobb said in the release that the school was grateful for the opportunity to apply for the grant.

According to a news release from Big Lots, 185 schools competed for a share of $120,000 in cash prizes in the sixth annual Lots2Give video contest. In Newton County, Fairview Elementary, Clements Middle School and Newton High School competed.