Creating Successful Corporate Partnerships

In this chapter, written by John Richards (2001), finding and maintaining corporate relationships is discussed. An effective partnership is one where there is a united purpose, commitment and vision. There are several reasons a business may seek out a school partnership; products which are marketed directly to education, research opportunities, those that have a financial interest in education, fostering a positive public image, or marketing products to students. In addition, partnerships with businesses can provide "real life" materials or opportunities to prepare students for the job market.

In Stafford, the county's biggest business push is the Adopt-A-Classroom program. With this program, teachers create a profile page on their classroom and things they would buy if adopted. Any individuals or businesses can adopt the classroom and donate $500. The teacher then buys items from supply companies which are business partners with the Adopt-A-Classroom company. I was lucky enough to have been adopted this year and I can see the pros and cons to this idea. It is great to get $500 to spend on items for your classroom but you have to be accountable for everything you buy and can only buy from select companies. When you look at it as a whole, the process is a kick-back for the Adopt-A-Classroom company. The county pays for the service and the companies pay to be a supplier and all Adopt-A-Classroom has to do is maintain a website.

Richards, J.(2001). “Strategies for Creating Successful Corporate Partnerships” Technology In Its Place. Jossey-Bass: San Francisco.