A significant concern emerged during the Rutherford County Social Services Board meeting on September 17, 2025, as members discussed the challenges facing the recruitment and retention of staff in children's services. The conversation highlighted a troubling trend: a decline in the number of students entering the field due to shifting educational priorities.

Since 2022, only three interns have transitioned into full-time positions within the department, raising questions about the effectiveness of current internship programs. These internships are unpaid and part of students' educational requirements, which may deter potential candidates. The board noted that schools have increasingly focused on promoting careers in medical social work, leaving children's services struggling to attract new talent.

Ariel, a newly hired social worker, shared her background as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and expressed her eagerness to transition into working with children and families. Her introduction underscored the need for diverse experiences within the department, yet the board acknowledged that recent resignations—four in just one week—pose a significant hurdle to maintaining adequate staffing levels.

The board's discussions emphasized the importance of addressing these staffing issues to ensure the continued support of vulnerable children and families in Rutherford County. As the meeting concluded, members expressed gratitude for the detailed personnel report that tracked staffing changes, underscoring the urgency of finding solutions to these pressing challenges.