Establishing the connection between learning and earning is the key to developing SchenectadyCounty‘s future workforce.
The Business & Education Partnership offers a unique approach to bridging the gap between business and education.Established in 1990, the Partnership includes all seven county school districts, SchenectadyCountyCommunity College, SchenectadyChristianSchool, Northeast Parent and Child, businesses and community organizations.
Through a cooperative relationship, the partnership strives to identify the needs of all partners and find solutions to their mutual benefit. The process if overseen by an Operational Council made up of representatives from each of the County’s school districts, business and community leaders.
The Operational Council focuses on the following goals:
To create a better prepared workforce in SchenectadyCounty thus contributing to the economic development of SchenectadyCounty.
To help all students succeed in their academic efforts and to prepare for a meaningful and challenging career.
Three main strategies for integrating career development and workforce preparation with academic curriculum have been designed. The comprehensive plan is made up of a continuum of programs.
1. Empower – Certificate of Employability
2. Explore – CareerEXPO
3. Experience – Experiential Day
Anticipated Outcomes
Employers will identify improved workplace skills among both their full- and part-time employees
The county will recognize a better-prepared workforce and thus economic growth.
Students will exhibit a better understanding of career opportunities available to them.
Students will exhibit a greater awareness of the preparation and training required for their career interest.
If you have any ideas for ways businesses and/or community organizations and schools can work together or if you would like to know more about business-education partnerships, e-mail Leesa Pagan or call her at 518.372.5656.