The first Partners In Education Expo brought together about 30 schools and a dozen businesses on Thursday, October 25, 2007.   Volunteers in Public Schools hosted the event, which is designed to offer businesses the opportunity to meet with East Baton Rouge Parish School representatives to focus on partnerships.

Business representatives participated in break-out sessions to learn how to enter into school partnerships, what challenges to avoid in partnering, and other tools that help to build partnerships and student success. 

Willie Johnson, Senior Vice President of Community Development for BRAC and VIPS’ Partners In Education Chair, says that because of her roles in both of organizations she understands the connection between effective public schools and a ready-to-hire workforce.  “The business community plays an integral role in the outcomes of public education and makes a wise investment when forming useful partnerships with local schools.” 

Partners In Education is a program of VIPS in collaboration with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, the Baton Rouge Area Chamber and the community.