Background Summary

Overall research supports the critical importance of education, business, and related community connections to help transform education, provide students with career insights and associated tools for success, and contribute to the growth and sustainability of economic climates. However, while many programs and initiatives assist in this process, there is still much work to be done. There is a need for continued education of all involved parties regarding the necessary elements for and impediments to establishing and growing successful connections. Research has also shown that major sources of potential education, business, government, and community partnerships are not being addressed and cultivated. 

Additional research into Education Partnerships provides several commonalities in overall findings re: essential success factors and impediments to success. Findings from over 35 national research sources (project studies and reports, education, foundation, and workforce thought leaders, active and retired school district superintendents, associated education and business entities) strongly indicate a need for better-targeted programs to strengthen education partnerships with area businesses, communities, and local governments.  Research also demonstrates the importance of continued efforts in workforce/career readiness, support for strategies that embrace the whole learner, and commitment to advancing educational equity.