During a recent Catoosa County government meeting, community members passionately voiced their support for local public education, emphasizing the critical role schools play in the lives of students. Several speakers, including long-time educators and parents, highlighted the challenges faced by students, particularly concerning mental health issues and the need for adequate resources.

Laura Kirkland, a veteran teacher at Ringgold Middle School, praised the Catoosa County school system for its commitment to student welfare, despite the financial pressures imposed by state mandates. She expressed gratitude for the school board's efforts to prioritize students and called for continued support from the community.

Destin Franks, another educator, shared a heartfelt account of the mental health struggles faced by students, noting a significant decline in their well-being over recent years. He urged the board to consider the impact of financial decisions on the availability of support staff, whom he described as \"life preservers\" for students in crisis. Franks emphasized that the focus should remain on the students' needs, advocating for resources that foster a supportive environment.

Laura Auguste echoed these sentiments, reflecting on her positive experiences within the Catoosa County school system and the importance of valuing every student. She cautioned against labeling students as \"undervalued,\" stressing that they should never feel less than their worth.

Lexi Cummings, a parent and educator, addressed concerns about potential property tax increases, advocating for maintaining the current millage rate to ensure quality education. She highlighted the importance of investing in schools to retain skilled teachers and provide necessary resources, which ultimately benefits the entire community.

Melody Moore, another resident and school employee, reinforced the idea that public education is foundational to society. She called for collective support to uphold the quality of education in Catoosa County, emphasizing that an educated populace is essential for a thriving community.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment among community members to advocate for the educational needs of Catoosa County's youth, highlighting the importance of collaboration between educators, parents, and local government in fostering a supportive learning environment.