Why Join The
ConnectED Polk Community?
ConnectED Polk is a platform for businesses and community stakeholders to engage with our education system for partnership, accountability, and long-term transformation.
We support innovative ideas to change the trajectory of our community’s future leaders. Our goal is to create a community of business leaders who collaborate with educators, drive innovation, and invest in building a stronger workforce for the future of Polk County. Together, we can open doors for students, strengthen local schools, and ensure our region thrives for generations to come.
Outcomes for Advocates
Educational Impact
Shape learning experiences and skill-building content that align with real industry needs, ensuring students develop the competencies required for future careers.
Increased Awareness
Expand visibility of member companies and help students and educators discover existing opportunities across Polk County’s workforce landscape.
Enhanced Talent Pool
Contribute to a stronger, more fully developed pipeline of talent by engaging directly with students who are preparing to enter the workforce.
Community Impact
Support meaningful community advancement by helping students progress toward career success, creating long-term benefits for the region.
In essence, while advocates contribute through events and engagement to support the mission, Trustees provide substantial financial backing and receive greater recognition and exclusive benefits in return.
We invite Polk County citizens to strengthen their annual advocacy impact by choosing the level that best matches both their commitment and financial capability. By doing so, you help ensure Polk County’s children receive the education they need to reach their full potential, while also building a talented, innovative workforce essential for the continued success of our businesses.
Why Join ConnectED Polk's Community of Business Leaders?
ConnectED Polk brings business leaders and strategic partners together with education to strengthen career pathways for students across the county. Through collaboration and shared accountability, we work to educate, inspire, and prepare future leaders while supporting Polk County’s economic vitality.
Our partners are united in expanding access to meaningful educational opportunities, ensuring every student, regardless of zip code, has a pathway to success.
By investing in this work, organizations gain access to a structured engagement model, high‑impact initiatives, and a strong network of public, private, charter, higher‑education, and technical institutions.
Whether driven by purpose or passion, your involvement helps shape Polk County’s future workforce and advances equitable opportunities for all students.
Advocate Engagement & Community Benefits
Designed Approach
ConnectED Polk follows a thoughtfully designed approach that connects organizations with impactful educational opportunities, while strategically branding and marketing those opportunities to effectively engage students.
Innovative Solutions
ConnectED Polk identifies and introduces proven solutions in Polk County that enhance educational experiences and expand student access to industry-related opportunities.
Spearhead Initiatives
ConnectED Polk leads initiatives based on tested solutions that align with the strategic goals of both industry partners and educational institutions.
Note: We seek a three-year commitment, recognizing that creating lasting change requires sustained partnership.
To learn more or become an advocate in our community,
please contact Dr. Melody Rider at melody@connectedpolk.org.
