The Chief Operating Officer of the United Way for the Greater Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region says a public-private partnership is a long-term effort to improve education. Chris Sargent says United4Change will require constant evaluation, making changes to the program and employing best practices.
Sargent says a group of businesses, economic development agency Southwest Michigan First and the United Way wanted to have a “meaningful impact on education.” He says there are now about two dozen companies participating.
United4Change is focusing primarily on four areas, early grade reading, finding mentors for young people, career fairs and “externships” where students can go on site and learn more about a business that they are interested in. Sargent says that allows students to explore a potential career.
Sargent says United4Change wants to help students with things like skilled trades. He says there are opportunities for students to get training which can allow them to make a good living, even if they don’t earn a four-year college degree.
United4Change started as a pilot project in 2012. Sargent says along the way they have learned that improving education includes getting parents engaged and training for teachers. He says that includes some private money for support. Sargent says that’s necessary because school districts are struggling with fewer resources.
