The case for business support public education.

There are over 200k students at Hampton Roads public schools, most of them will succeed in doing incredible things professionally. Though some students may be dreaming of moving to other cities around the globe, Many will choose Hampton Roads to start their careers.

In the business world is only normal to concentrate on issues that directly affect the current workforce, such as the engagement of employees, increasing productivity, and developing business. However, it’s equally crucial to address issues that affect the future generation of workers as making sure that students are prepared for success now will yield dividends in the years to come.

According to a study conducted in 2014, higher levels of education are linked to a broad array of positive outcomes, including higher earning potential, improved overall health and well-being, lower levels of poverty and unemployment, more civic engagement, and increased volunteering. These benefits go beyond the individual, helping to strengthen the whole community and encouraging everyone to support our students.

Public schools across our region are setting the stage to ensure students’ academic success each day, and the business sector is a key part of this system. There are numerous ways that businesses can be involved and immediately impact graduation and college enrollment and completion rates. In doing so, they can help develop the next generation of employees.

Help a club or program to sponsor

Research has proven a link between involvement in extracurricular activities and academic success. Whether the activity is sports-related or artistic, students are taught teamwork responsibility, accountability, leadership, and time-management — which are skills that can be used in the future professions of tomorrow.

In these games, the coaches and sponsors of clubs frequently serve as model role models, creating an influence positive on children who are at risk and building their self-esteem.

The benefits of participation by students in extracurricular activities are many. However, insufficient funding can keep these activities out of the reach of students. Businesses who step in as sponsors can enable these activities and also show students that their talents and goals are important to the entire community.

Make job opportunities for interns.

When we discuss the most effective ways to help students, over and time again, they voice the desire to gain experience with their potential career options. Education provides the abilities needed to excel in the workplace; however, the most effective method to acquire them is to put those skills into practice in a real-world environment.

By creating apprenticeship and internship opportunities, companies can impact the job training of the students from our region. Additionally, these opportunities can help prepare the future generation of skilled workers and prepare them to be hired after graduation or obtain recognition.

Donate money and other resources

The most immediate and effective thing that a company can do is provide much-needed funds or resources to those in need of schools. Many local school districts have foundations for education where companies can contribute tax-deductible contributions that directly aid students in the school district. The funds are used to fund everything from school equipment, needed supplies, improvements, or even the hiring of faculty and teachers.

Furthermore, non-profit organizations such as ACCESS College Foundation work directly with local school districts to prepare students for postsecondary educational aspirations. By helping established and reliable organizations, companies can be certain that their contributions go further, helping students directly.

Participate in volunteer opportunities

If you are a business seeking more efficient methods to improve their business, look into the numerous volunteer opportunities available in our community’s public education system, from tutors, mentors, and teachers to activity supervisors and assistant coaches. There is an opportunity for volunteers of all kinds. These possibilities aren’t just for students or parents.

Volunteers have a positive impact on the life of children and create a positive environment in which students can flourish. There are many benefits to volunteering, and research has shown that volunteering can positively affect employee morale and engagement. Leaders of businesses should think about allowing employees to give their time regular basis.

Contributing to the local education system is beneficial to children, families, and the community. Today’s investment will almost surely pay off in the coming years, creating generations of confident, competent workers who will continue to contribute significantly to our community and beyond.

It requires a community to educate a child, and it’s on each of us to provide an environment in which the children within our community have all the tools to succeed.