Executive Insight

I wanted to share some great news about how our children are doing here in White County. The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth recently published its County Profiles of Child Well-Being. The latest data gives us reasons to be proud and plenty of motivation to keep going.

Our strongest indicator? Math achievement. White County ranks 5th in the entire state for the percentage of students meeting or exceeding expectations on TCAP Math. That’s an incredible accomplishment for our students and teachers. It speaks volumes about the hard work happening in our classrooms every single day.

We also shine when it comes to keeping our young people safe. White County ranks 7th in Tennessee for the lowest crime rate among youth ages 10 to 17. That means fewer kids in trouble and more kids focused on positive opportunities, and that’s something every parent and neighbor can celebrate.

How can we keep moving forward?

1. Keep investing in evidence-based family programs, like Empower Upper Cumberland, that strengthen two-generation outcomes.

2. Expand workforce and training support, like Work-Based Learning and Career & Technical Education (CTE) that helps students learn Advanced Manufacturing, Health Science, Information Technology, Agriculture & Natural Resources, STEM and Transportation so high school graduates have clear opportunities, whether locally or beyond.

3. Bolster and increase childcare options, so parents can work with confidence—and kids can thrive.

White County ranks in the top half of Tennessee counties for overall child well-being. We’re proving that great things happen when a community works together.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Our kids are counting on us, and I couldn’t be more confident in this community’s ability to deliver.

Thanks, D.W.