Business and Education Together

“Sure B.E.T.” was recently recognized in Austin by the Texas State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Shirley Neeley, as the program to become the state model.

“Sure B.E.T.” won the award at the 2005 State Chamber of Commerce Convention as the “Best New Chamber of Commerce Program in Texas.”

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Why Are We Doing This? We believe that the students of today are our future. They will be the parents and leaders of tomorrow. We must provide them with the best education possible so they will be prepared to meet the challenges ahead of them.

Goal

The goal of “Sure B.E.T.” is to increase the educational attainment level of the community. In direct response to requests from community leaders, several facets of the “Sure BE.T.” program have been created. Mentoring/Tutoring, Occupation Investigation, Job Shadowing, Employee Presentations, Career Fairs and Business Cents classes are all in place.

At this time the main focal points are Mentoring/Tutoring and the Business Cents classes. A new Mentoring/Tutoring organization has been contracted by Victoria Independent School District to access the academic needs of each student in need of extra academic assistance. A “prescription” is then established for each student. Caring adults are being recruited to assist a student for thirty minutes per week for a school year. Team mentoring is also available. Research indicates that a student who has a mentor/tutor for a year may increase their level of education by two years! Business Cents classes are currently being taught at the high school. These classes include: Resume Writing, Dressing for Success, Interviewing Skills, Hands on Banking and Business Etiquette.

What Do We Hope To Gain?

Forging a partnership between business and educational communities will benefit everyone involved. Businesses will be assured of a qualified workforce in the future; employees will have the satisfaction of making valuable contributions to their community.

How Do You Get Involved?

If you would like to volunteer to assist with any of these or other Chamber programs, please call Rhonda Fotiades, Director of Education and Workforce Development, (361) 573-5277.