Motivating the Workforce of the Future: 6th Grade Business/Education Partnership

Success Story

University of Illinois Extension McLean County and a local grassroots organization, the McLean County Community Compact, partner to introduce students to the world of work by coordinating the adoption of every sixth grade class in McLean County by a business partner through the Sixth Grade Business/Education Partnership Program. Over 2200 students in 64 sixth grade classrooms are offered this opportunity per year.

Each business emphasizes hands-on activities, career opportunities, and training necessary to succeed in that business. Students are exposed to real world applications of their work in the classroom. Students are shown the specific career path leading to the expressed area of interest within the business. Thus, students have a much better understanding of why a solid educational background is important when entering the workforce. Elements of the business are explored such as hiring practices, advertising, production, management, financial needs, responsibilities, and teamwork. The program is entering its 15th year.