Creating a network to support Tennesse children

We need a network of child development
O'Neal, Linda. Tennessean. June 28, 2008.

In the past 50 years, in Tennessee and the nation, we have built a series of modern networks that are essential to our quality of life — our power grid, phone systems, water systems, interstate highways and the Internet.

Tennesseans need to work together to build comparable public structures, systems and networks to support the development of healthy, productive citizens.

The failure to provide comprehensive supports for Tennessee children — the backbone of our future work force and economy — is the equivalent of having scattered wells, individual generators and county roads, but no infrastructure to ensure future success for our children.

The work force of tomorrow depends on the investments we make today. Our legacy needs to be one of responsibility. We must ensure Tennessee children have a bright future and, consequently, the future of the state as a whole is enhanced.

On June 26, the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth released a publication entitled, "Blueprint for the Success of Tennessee's Children" http://www.state.tn.us/tccy/kc-soc06.html

Investing in Tennessee children is the most important thing we can do to provide them with good quality of life and opportunities for success. Our future is at risk if the health, education and development of Tennessee children are not given the priority they deserve.