It was the kind of media attention that wasn't derived from the best of circumstances.

TV trucks and reporters from throughout Minnesota descended on Austin close to a month ago, when the Packer football team opened its playoff season against Red Wing.

Problem was, it wasn't the game that attracted the attention. It was the first day that Red Wing teachers staged a strike. As a result, the school principal and superintendent replaced the regular coaches.

However, an agreement has finally been reached and students will return to classes Friday. But were there any lessons learned?

A few.

The lack of an agreement showed how much of a financial strain is being put on school districts throughout the state. Red Wing school board members had the tough task of trying to reach a contract, while being responsible to the taxpayers that elected them to their positions.

Unfortunately, it took four weeks for both sides to realize that neither was going to get what it truly wanted.

So now, students are finally getting back to class. But it's an unfortunate situation that could have been avoided.

A prime example is to look at the recent contract reached between teachers in the Austin school district. Yes, it took awhile and yes, neither sides were entirely pleased with the agreement.

But the lesson learned was that agreements could be reached and progress made if both sides were willing to allow it.

We're pleased to see the Red Wing strike is ending. However, it should make us even more thankful this community was able to avoid what could have very well been a similar fate.