What is the School/Business Partnership in Education (PIE) Program?
The School/Business Partnership in Education program is a voluntary relationship between a business and/or community or civic organization that partner with a school or department for at least one year. This commitment is based on a plan of written activities designed to match educational needs with available business resources that will improve the quality of education within our community. The goals of the program are:
1. to enrich and expand the instructional program;
2. to recognize and reward students and staff achievements and accomplishments;
3. to increase student awareness of the business world and career opportunities.
What are benefits of being a partner?
The benefits are significant. You may give your time, talent and energy to your school, but you will receive even more in return. You will gain a better understanding of our public school system, how it works and what the children need. Your company will gain public awareness as a business that cares about the quality of education in Columbia County. In addition, PIE can be a great moral booster for your employees by showing them how they have made a difference in a child's life. People like doing business with businesses that support our children.
How does my partnership benefit the school and community?
Partnerships directly benefit children by giving them positive role models. Partners give students the incentives they need to excel. Your business can prepare students to enter the work force by developing career awareness and showing them how business operates. Partners In Education makes for a tightly knit community since businesses and schools work together to reach a common goal -giving students a well-rounded education.
What issues are addressed through partnership activities?
Each school and the school system have goals set for their students and staff through their School Improvement Plans. Partners in Education work to help meet these needs by providing reading buddies, financial donations, guest speakers, equipment and an array of other resources and materials.
Who can become a partner?
You can! Whether your business is large or just a one-person operation or civic club, you can make a valuable contribution to the education of children in Columbia County. Each partnership is unique. Partnerships may be established with government agencies, businesses, colleges, hospitals, social or community service clubs, or any group or person committed to improving education. A partner can become involved with one school; with the entire school system or with a system- wide program such as special education, vocational or technology.
What are the requirements of the Program?
The elements of the Partners In Education Program center around four components: Student Motivation & Achievement, Teacher Appreciation, Community Service & Involvement, and Business Appreciation. Each partnership should strive to fulfill one activity in each of the four component areas. Partnerships that are successful in meeting all four components are recognized as a "Four Star Partnership". Partnerships that support five or more schools, are recognized as “Partners at-Large” by the Superintendent.
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