The latest Annie E. Casey Foundation's Kids Count poll showed Tennessee moved up to 35th in "child well-being" rankings.
"Kids Count" partners made the announcement Tuesday afternoon, saying it's a huge leap from last year's 38th ranking.
Areas of improvement included reading and math levels, secure employment for parents, insurance for kids, and increasing pursuit of post-seondary education.
"I was in Sevier county and I heard a student directly say to me because I know there is a Tennessee Promise I am acting differently in high school than I was. I see that they matter, these courses I'm taking matter. The knowledge that I'm gaining matters. I'm improving my writing skills because it matters because I see an oppurtunity that I didn't see before," said Dr. Candice McQueen.
Governor Haslam said although he's proud of the ranking, there are still improvements to be made including decreasing the number of children living in high poverty.
