Madison County faces challenges in child safety, education

A Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth report ranks Madison County 94th of the state’s 95 counties for child safety and risk behavior, and 88th for education. Chronic absenteeism stands at 28.2%, compared with 18.3% statewide. Jackson-Madison County Schools says it is using rewards and student activities to encourage attendance, while a local child advocacy center provides services to children affected by abuse.