SHELBYVILLE, Tenn.

Farm house blaze kills four

A couple and two step-grandchildren they were raising were killed in an intense fire in an old farmhouse in Shelbyville that collapsed the walls.

Family members identified the couple as 72-year-old Leon "Bubba" McClaran and his 70-year-old wife, Molli McClaran. The family said the children were 9-year-old Chloe Pope and 7-year-old Gage Daniels. Someone passing the McClaran's farm in Bedford County saw the home enveloped in flames Sunday night and called for help.

Authorities believe the fire began around 10 p.m. Firefighters fought the flames until around 4 a.m. Monday and have yet to determine a cause.

GAINESVILLE, Ga.

Parent advice panel created

As part of an effort to increase involvement by parents and families in Georgia public schools, a new statewide advisory panel is being created.

State School Superintendent John Barge said 36 parents will make up the 2013 Parent Advisory Council.

The Times of Gainesville reports the council will meet three times a year. It is expected to provide parental feedback and input on new policies, projects and materials that influence students and their families.