A volunteer board of directors governs the operations of PIE. The board is comprised of approximately 30 members representing the region's business, military, and education communities. This includes private schools; Fort Benning schools; and public school districts of Chattahoochee, Harris, Muscogee and Talbot counties. The program is staffed by the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce under the Education and Workforce Development Division at 1200 6th Avenue, Columbus, Georgia, 31902.

Partners in Education provides for the development and support of regional education partnerships, including over 82 schools and approximately 196 partnering organizations. These partnerships provide for increased educational and enrichment opportunities for students aimed at improving levels of achievement, self-esteem, and understanding of the expectations of the work world. Partnerships also provide for school staff education and recognition, thereby increasing staff morale and enthusiasm.

PIE is based on the concept that "human capital" is the most important resource a partner can provide. Although businesses sometimes provide funding for specific needs, the greatest benefit to education is derived from the personal involvement of volunteers in schools. Service companies, manufacturing firms, civic organizations, military units, and even churches have created successful partnerships.

Careful consideration is given to match the needs of the school with the resources of the business. Partners are asked to apply for either a "gold" or "silver" level partnership.

Once the partnership is established, the possibilities for a successful relationship are endless. Partners develop mentoring programs, pen pal programs, honors/awards ceremony, tutorials, teacher recognition programs, computer enhancement programs, field trips, career days, workshops for parents, speaker's bureaus, life skills workshops, and much more! School partners provide entertainment, hosts and hostesses for special events, meeting rooms/facilities, decorations, and grateful smiles.

The success of a partnership hinges on planning, commitment and communication. The ideal relationship grows to include the students, faculty, parents, employees, and surrounding community.