Coordinated by the Greater Hall Chamber, Partners in Education (PIE) strives to improve education by stimulating meaningful business and community involvement in public schools. Through individual partnerships with industries, businesses, professional organizations, churches, civic clubs and military units, schools are able to tap resources to meet the individual needs or each student body, provide excellent educational programming, and recognize achievement.
PIE provides for the development and support of regional education partnerships, including all 44 public city and county schools (elementary, middle and high school levels) and over 350 partnering organizations. These partnerships provide for increased educational and enrichment opportunities for students aimed at improving levels of achievement, self-esteem, and understanding of the expectations of the work world. Partnerships also provide for school staff education and recognition, thereby increasing staff morale and enthusiasm.
PIE is based on the concept that “human capital” is the most important resource a partner can provide. Although businesses sometimes provide funding for specific needs, the greatest benefit to education is derived from the personal involvement of volunteers in schools. Partners develop mentoring programs, pen pal programs, honors/awards ceremonies, tutorials, teacher recognition programs, computer enhancement programs, field trips, career days, workshops for parents, speaker’s bureaus, life skills workshops, and much more! School partners provide entertainment, hosts and hostesses for special events, meeting rooms/facilities, student art work, decorations, and many grateful smiles.
For more information, contact Jason Pruitt, VP Education & Leadership, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email jpruitt@ghcc.com.
