White County Commission Q6 Candidate Responses

The Main Street Journal – Sparta has been listening to the community. Over the past several weeks, readers have submitted questions they want answered ahead of the 2026 election—and we’ve taken those directly to your County Commission candidates.

Here is your sixth question, and answers from those candidates who chose to respond.

What role should local government play in supporting our schools and youth Programs?

BRYAN COLE: While schools are primarily managed at the state and school board level, local government still plays an important supporting role in helping them succeed. One of the biggest ways we can do that is through responsible funding decisionsmaking sure our schools have safe facilities, reliable infrastructure, and the resources they need to create a strong learning environment.

Local government can also help build partnerships between schools, businesses, and community organizations. These partnerships can open the door for mentorship programs, job training, and extracurricular opportunities that prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Supporting youth programs-whether it's athletics, after-school activities, or outreach programs-gives young people a safe and positive environment to grow, learn, and stay engaged.

It's also important to recognize that investing in our youth is an investment in the future of our county. When we provide opportunities for kids to succeed, we strengthen our workforce, improve public safety, and build a stronger sense of community. This isn't just about one district-it's about doing what's best for all of White County.

I believe local government should work alongside educators, parents, and community leaders to support our youth in every way possible, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities they need to reach

ANDY DAVIS: I think local government has a responsibility to support our schools and youth programs, but also to respect that educators and parents are the ones closest to it day to day.

Our role starts with making sure schools have what they need to do their job. That means working with the school system on funding, maintaining safe facilities, and making sure growth doesn’t outpace our classrooms.

We can also support youth programs outside the classroom. Things like recreation, 4-H, FFA, and local sports. Those programs teach work ethic, leadership, and keep kids on the right path.

Another big part is planning ahead. If we know more families are moving in, we need to be ready with schools, ballfields, and community spaces so our kids aren’t left behind.

And just as important is staying connected. Listening to teachers, parents, and coaches so we understand what’s working and what’s not.

At the end of the day, strong schools and strong youth programs mean a stronger White County down the road. It’s an investment in our kids and in the future of this community.

ERICK DILDINE: This question really matters to me not just as a candidate, but as a dad raising my kids right here in this community. My kids have played and are still participating in these youth programs, especially sports, so I’ve seen firsthand how much of an impact they have. Our schools and youth programs are shaping the future of White County, and local government has a responsibility to support that.

I believe education decisions should stay in the hands of our school board and educators. But that doesn’t mean the county takes a back seat we should be strong partners in making sure our kids have every opportunity to succeed.

First, we need to make sure our schools are safe, well-maintained, and properly supported. That means being responsible with taxpayer dollars and prioritizing investments that directly benefit students and teachers.

Second and this is a big one for a lot of families here at home local government should strongly support youth sports programs. Sports teach discipline, teamwork, accountability, and hard work. They also give kids something positive to be part of and help keep them on the right path. That means making sure our fields, parks, and facilities are in good shape, and looking for ways to support leagues so every kid who wants to play has the opportunity.

Beyond sports, we should continue to support after-school programs and community activities that give kids structure and positive direction.

We should also focus on building strong partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers to expand opportunities like mentorships and job skills.

And just as important, we need to listen to parents, coaches, and teachers. They know what our kids need, and local government should always be open and responsive to that.

At the end of the day, investing in our kids is investing in the future of White County. Strong youth programs help build strong families, and that builds a stronger community for all of us here at home.

DERRICK HUTCHINGS: The school system has its own board, so I lean on it to tell the commission what the school system's needs are. As stated in another question, I feel we need to invest in Parks & recreational programs for our youth.

JAVIER ORTIZ: Strong schools and youth programs build a stronger future. Local government should:

• Support funding where possible

• Partner with organizations like the YMCA and other local programs focused on the youth and families

• Encourage opportunities for youth development, sports, and mentorship

Investing in our youth is investing in White County’s future.

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