A Conversation That Cares: Building a Brighter Future for Our Children

Last evening, as Heather and I sat down over dinner, our conversation naturally turned toward a subject that hits close to home: the well-being of our children. Heather, who works in health care and recently had an enlightening conversation with a child psychologist at her hospital, shared insights that I believe every parent, community leader, and citizen should hear.

Heather: “Joe, I was speaking with one of my colleagues today—a child psychologist—and she emphasized how the stress our children experience from economic hardships affects every aspect of their development. It isn’t just about test scores. It’s about their health, their self-esteem, and even their ability to form meaningful relationships.”

Her words resonated deeply with me. We both know that Tallapoosa and many other small towns across America face economic challenges. In our town, we see evidence in the everyday struggles: families juggling on modest incomes, the impact of lower median household earnings, and a housing market that, while affordable, doesn’t fully shield families from the persistent shadow of poverty.

Her colleague explained that when families are under constant economic stress, children are often the silent sufferers. They miss out on opportunities for enrichment—like early childhood programs, extracurricular activities, and even the simple benefits of a nutritious meal or a stable home environment. This lack of resources can lead to difficulties in school and contribute to behavioral and mental health challenges.

Joe: “Heather, it’s heartbreaking. Our children in Tallapoosa—and in many small communities—are growing up under conditions that can limit their potential. The statistics are alarming. In some areas, up to 25% of kids live in poverty. That’s not just a number; it’s a generation at risk.”

Heather added, “And it’s not only at home. Our local schools, like those in Haralson County, face their own challenges. Even though the funding mix of local taxes, state dollars, and federal grants helps support digital access, nutrition programs, mental health services, and special education, there are still gaps. For example, while schools have managed to secure federal grants for technology and meal programs, the digital divide remains—especially for students who don’t have reliable broadband at home. Plus, the demand for mental health support is growing faster than the funds can cover.”

This conversation led me to look deeper into the very structure that supports our children’s education. In Haralson County, our schools serve over 3,500 students with a blend of local property taxes, state Quality Basic Education funds, and federal aid. The district has made notable investments:

• Digital Access: Special-purpose local option sales tax (ESPLOST) dollars and federal Emergency Connectivity Funds have allowed the district to purchase devices and improve broadband access. Still, many rural homes remain underserved.

• Food Insecurity Programs: With programs like the Community Eligibility Provision, every student qualifies for free meals at school. Federal reimbursements from the National School Lunch Program ensure that our children receive nutritious meals during the school day.

• Mental Health Resources: While initiatives have expanded counseling and on-site mental health services, the rising need for mental health support is not fully met by current staffing ratios. Collaborations with community partners like Tanner Health System have helped, but sustainability is a concern.

• Special Education: Federal IDEA and state funding provide weighted support for students with disabilities, yet local funds are still required to bridge significant gaps in services.

I believe that as a community, we must act—by investing in our schools, supporting local businesses to create better jobs, and ensuring that every family has access to quality health care and nutritious food. The conversation Heather and I shared is not unique to us. It is echoed in every small town where economic struggles threaten the futures of our most precious resource: our children.

If I am honored to serve as your mayor, I will work tirelessly to create policies that lift up every family in Tallapoosa. We need to focus on:

• Economic Revitalization: Attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones to create stable, well-paying jobs.

• Education and Technology: Investing in our schools to bridge the digital divide and provide our children with the resources they need.

• Community Health: Partnering with local health providers and educational institutions to ensure every child has access to quality health care—including mental health services—and nutritious meals.

• Sustainable Funding for Critical Services: Working with our state and federal leaders to ensure that the funding gaps in digital access, mental health, and special education are permanently addressed, so our schools can truly nurture every child’s potential.

Our town’s strength has always been found in our unity and our shared commitment to a better future. I invite you to join me in this conversation—one that doesn’t just highlight problems, but also builds hope and drives real change. Together, we can ensure that our children, in Tallapoosa and every small town, grow up with the opportunities they deserve.

Let’s work together to create a future where no child is held back by economic hardship, and where every community thrives.

Joe Glass - The Clear Choice for Responsible Family-Focused Growth

What are your thoughts? Share your experiences or ideas in the comments below. Together, we can build a better future for our children.