The power of business and education partnerships – Graduation Matters Montana

The economic future of our state depends on a quality public-education system. As Montana citizens, we must get involved in supporting the students who will lead our state successfully into the future.

Last month, at the first-ever Graduation Matters Montana http://graduationmatters.mt.gov Summit, business and community leaders joined school districts from 30 communities to focus on improving student achievement and graduation rates in Montana. These business and community partners have stepped up because they understand that each of us has a role to play in supporting student success and that public education directly impacts Montana’s economic future.

Business leaders from State Farm Insurance, First Interstate Bank, Mountain West Broadcasting and PRO Outfitters discussed how educators and businesses can work together to support students and our economy. Businesses can help students make the connection between what they learn in school and the skills they need in the work force. They encouraged educators to tap into their local businesses for job shadowing opportunities, internships and classroom presentations. They also discussed the importance of educators and businesses working together to help make students aware of the variety of jobs available in our state.

Our business leaders are looking for workers not only with academic skills but also critical thinking and communication skills, creativity, adaptability, resilience and the ability to work in teams.

Denise Juneau

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20120813/OPINION/308130018/The-power-business-education-partnerships?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Frontpage|p

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The State with the Best Education Wins!