Often, when approached by a school proposing partnership people ask, "How much will it cost?" The answer is, "Nothing, or whatever the partner wants to contribute." The most outstanding partnerships often involvementorship, shadowing, and internship programs and other activities. The most excellent gift our students receive is the time and shared life of careing adults.

CONTACT the Partners in Education office. A representative will be happy to discuss the areas of special interest/needs of your organization. You'll also be asked to consider what type of partnership you'd like to form. (For example, some businesses sponsor a specific school, program and/or department.

YOU may prefer to have an information packet mailed to you. Please email the PIE Coordinator to have a packet sent to you.

REQUEST a meeting with the Partners in Education office and/or your potential partner to establish specific interests, resources and needs. This meeting may consist of introduction to schools finding out more about their respective programs, touring the school site, department or visiting a program and participating in a brainstorming session.

FINALIZE partnership agreement. You may plan an official "ceremony" event (if desired by both partners). The Partners in Education office will provide assistance.

BE supportive of your partnership. Stay in contact with one another. Be sure to inform the Partners in Education office when you have a scheduled event.

SUBMIT any updates with your partnership to the Partners in Education office. Changes with staff members designated as the "Partner contacts" are especially important. You may also take the opportunity to share the successes of your partnership.