Equipping tomorrow's workforce
Education matters in North Idaho. It matters to students, citizens, the economy — and it matters to the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber too. For decades, our Education Committee, a group of passionate community chamber members who care deeply about local education at every level, meets monthly to discuss top challenges facing our Education sector and build creative opportunities for our business community to step in to provide necessary support for educators, administrators, and students.
Members With A Purpose
This volunteer committee works together to advance a strong education platform in Kootenai County. With diverse working backgrounds, the members represent local educators, administrators, various businesses, and several nonprofit groups. The agenda for each meeting is centered around top education priorities in our region, and this year’s issues are more important than ever.
Among the concerns facing education here in North Idaho are recruiting, retention, funding, and community support. Divisiveness and misinformation have fueled a climate of fear and uncertainty. With increased scrutiny directed at public education and decreased funding, it is becoming more and more difficult to attract and retain the most qualified teachers. There is a significant opportunity to drive awareness around these issues and encourage engagement and support from the community.
Today’s Students Are Tomorrow’s Workforce
It is for this reason that the Education Committee works so hard all year long. Their goal is to drive impact in education for both students and educators. One of the most rewarding initiatives they lead each year is our scholarship breakfast. It is through their leadership, combined with the incredible generosity of local businesses, that high school seniors have the opportunity to receive scholarships for post-secondary education. We are thrilled that this week, on Tuesday, April 12, at 7 a.m. at The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 50 students will receive $1,000 towards tuition at the school of their choice! The committee truly believes that the solution begins with our youth.
“Our young people are a phenomenal asset to our community. We need to invest in them and appreciate their perspectives, talents, and creativity.” — Pam Pratt, Education Committee Member
Now is the time for our community to come together and help. Strong support for our educational systems directly impacts the growth and future of businesses in our area. Quality education not only develops our workforce and attracts businesses, it improves our economic health, reduces the crime rate, and makes our community a more attractive place to live.
“Education is an economic driver that contributes to the community and how we function and live together. Businesses in our region cannot remain competitive without an educated workforce.” — Paula Marano, Education Committee Member
Be A Part Of The Solution!
Equipping tomorrow’s workforce is an immediate and worthwhile objective for the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber. If you are interested in being a part of the effort to drive education support in our region, please consider joining our committee. For more information, contact the Chairman of our Education Committee, Rocky Owens, rwowens@lcsc.edu.
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Linda Coppess is president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber. She's a Coeur d'Alene native.
