Create a meaningful process for communicating about
the program and recognizing the contributions of business partners.

To ensure the program’s sustainability, it’s important to have an ongoing communications plan and recognition program, including publicity to recruit new partners and honor existing ones.

Coming to consensus on what type of recognition businesses will receive is signifi cant. Developing guidelines for recognition and communicating about them to partners early on helps partners be clear about the public recognition they will receive for their efforts.

The guidelines must be balanced with what is the appropriate degree of business recognition in schools. Some individuals who oversee school partner programs say while hidden agendas and commercialism in schools can be a challenge, it is typically less of a challenge than some may expect. “We talk [openly] about the business’ role and the school’s role, and the goals they set up probably help winnow out those with an agenda,” says Tim Tracy, former president of the Greeley-Weld County Chamber of Commerce.

Ideas for Recognizing Business Partners

  Letters from principal, teachers, students and parents
 End-of-year celebrations Recognition at assemblies, on school Web site and in school newsletter
 Annual district award for an outstanding partner
 Continuous service award to long-term partners (e.g., five years)
 Certificates, bulletin boards or banners to display at the school and business
 Annual awards luncheon for school and business partnership program coordinators
 Recognition at school board meetings