Partners: Trustmark National Bank, First Bank, Graphics Etc., Farm Bureau of Pike County, McComb Coca-Cola Bottling Company, The Brentwood House, Dream Builders, Walmart Super Center, Lowe's, Buffalo Services, Southwest Health Systems, McComb Housing Authority, McComb Police Department, Piccadilly, McComb Market, Cooks Enterprise, Lott Furniture, The Well, Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Excel By 5, Edgewood Mall, Three Way Package, Sweet Tooth’s Café 

Students impacted: 450
Volunteers: 40
Partnership duration: 1 year

The McComb School District established a Partners in Education program in 2016 to promote academic success by building relationships with students, schools, businesses, law enforcement, and the local community. A board of directors comprising 12 to 15 community stakeholders governs PIE operations, and committees have been formed to address literacy, health and wellness, scholarships, media relations, finances, community outreach, and alumni relations. Although businesses sometimes provide funding for specific needs, the greatest benefit to education is derived from the personal involvement of volunteers in schools.

Activities:

• "Tiger Tales” annual literacy event
• Fitness activities led by McComb police officers
• Establishment of student-centered teaching and learning sites
• Quarterly membership drives to recruit new businesses and alumni

Impacts:

• Perceptions about school district are improving
• Partnerships and community volunteerism are growing