Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin announced last month dates for a series of community forums that will be held throughout West Virginia to discuss the audit of the State’s public education system released earlier this year. The series will be hosted by the nonprofit economic development organization, Vision Shared in collaboration with the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.
“With the development of new jobs and the revitalization of established industries it is important that we work together to ensure our children receive the best education possible so that we can continue to prepare them for the demands of our growing economy,” said Gov. Tomblin. “Business and community leaders, as well as every West Virginian concerned about our education system will have the opportunity to discuss how to best use this information as we strive to improve education in the State.”
The Education Efficiency Audit of West Virginia’ Primary and Secondary Education System, conducted by Public Works LLC, resulted in more than 50 findings and recommendations identified aimed at improving student education. Vision Shared will seek feedback on the service delivery improvement section of the audit and recommendations from business and community leaders throughout the state.
“Education is the foundation for business growth and economic development in West Virginia. Improving our student’s educational success is one of Vision Shared’s primary strategic goals,” said Becky Ceperley, chairman of Vision Shared, “We are hopeful that the input received from business and community leaders during the forums will help provide a path forward for Vision Shared’s future efforts.”
Vision Shared is hosting an event open to the community in Charleston on June 28, 2012 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the West Virginia Cultural Center – Capitol Complex, 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, W.Va. Additional forums will be held in various locations throughout the summer, dates and locations can be found at www.visionshared.com.
“Business leaders throughout West Virginia will have an opportunity to talk about workforce preparedness and education needs during these community forums,” said Stephen Roberts, president of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to working collaboratively with Governor Tomblin and Vision Shared.”
