Texas State Representative Scott Hochberg gave the attendees of our regional forum in Houston something new to think about. He might have even made some people think way outside of their comfort zone.

Many of us constantly need to make professional decisions that are not within our area of expertise. However, it is often difficult to admit that we don’t know it all. We like to think we have the answers to everything and fail to identify smaller, less obvious problems that have the potential to be easily and effectively corrected. According to Rep. Hochberg, those mindsets can’t get us anywhere.

What we need to form effective education partnerships, posed Rep. Hochberg, is to think about what businesses can offer and what schools need, not including the big three (money, volunteers, and mentors). Rep. Hochberg encouraged us to think about the expertise that businesses bring to the table – something that schools do not typically take advantage of in their partnerships. “I have some people who are very helpful to me when I run into legislation that I don’t know much about, that I have to do something about,” cited Rep. Hochberg as an example. He frequently pulls on the expertise of his network to help him make the best decisions for his constituents. According to him, it’s all about identifying a need and not being afraid to admit that it needs to be filled. In another instance, Rep. Hochberg referred to a practical application of his advice: If a business partner has knowledge of operating ratios, why can’t he/she empower principals by using that knowledge to help balance difficult budgets?

In turn, we challenge you to think about what you can provide that nobody else can. In lieu of asking for more volunteers or donations, ask for specialized skills. Does your school have a big fundraiser coming up? Refine marketing collateral through partnerships so that fundraiser participation grows. Know of any grants that your school can benefit from? Schedule a meeting to discuss how you can leverage your partnership to obtain them. Don’t be afraid to admit you need something, or offer something that is not typically asked for. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

To watch a portion of Rep. Hochberg’s keynote address, and for other useful resources, tune in to our YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/txedpartners.

Don’t miss our next regional forum, taking place in just one week! Texas State Representative Diana Maldonado will be our keynote speaker. Rep. Maldonado has a long history of supporting education both as a parent and school district board member. Learn how you can join the upcoming discussion.