How business partnerships benefit District 203 students
Naperville Unit District 203 believes an exemplary school district is the result of a collective partnership of students, staff, parents and community.
Throughout our schools, students are benefiting from the guidance and mentorship of local professionals through our Business Partnership program. Partnerships are happening in our classrooms at all age levels, from guest speakers, to classroom projects, to work alongside local businesses.
Small businesses and multinational corporations are sharing their diverse business experiences to provide our students with unique and authentic learning experiences that promote skills to ensure college and career readiness.
On Feb. 9, we held our annual Exemplary Business Partnership Awards to celebrate those that embody our mission and beliefs by partnering with Naperville 203 to advance our curriculum, providing mission-driven and transformational engagement opportunities for our students. This year's award recipients were RR Donnelley, which hosted six students through its summer internship program; the City of Naperville, for its summer internship program; RPC Leadership and Edgewood Clinical Services for their work and sponsorship of our Student Leadership Institute; and the Lisle Library and Literacy DuPage for their English Language Learner support for Ann Reid Early Childhood Center families.
More exciting partnerships are continuing throughout the school year. This semester, architecture students at Naperville Central and Naperville North high schools are redesigning the Iroquois Shopping Center along the East Ogden Corridor. They are working alongside representatives of the City of Naperville and the Naperville Development Partnership to revitalize the area with shops, dining, residential and open space.
We're proud to celebrate the inspiration and impact of collaboration between businesses and education in Naperville 203. Whether it is speaking to a class or hosting an intern or somewhere in-between, we know the expertise of our local business professionals can help our students better prepare for their future.
For an in-depth look at how businesses partner with our schools to enhance student experiences, watch our Business Partnership Video. For information on how to become a Business Partner, visit Naperville203.org. Thank you to our Business Partners and the work they do with our students.
• Dan Bridges is superintendent of Naperville Unit District 203. His column appears monthly during the school year in Neighbor.