Some schools are struggling to raise funds and have turned to corporate sponsors, well-wishers, and community members to help. While many big brands have found ways to help schools, these efforts have faced some criticism. Some critics say the partnerships teach children to be bad consumers, while others say the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The answer isn’t obvious, but a few things should be kept in mind. If you’re looking for a way to support a school while also benefiting students, consider these three tips.
A company that sponsors a school should consider the social and environmental impact of its partnership. In addition to giving the school improved resources, it can also help the school create a valuable connection. For example, the school may promote the consumption of soft drinks, which contradicts its own nutrition guidelines. The partnership also could have adverse effects on the image of the sponsoring company. Some companies may feel indebted to the school, resulting in bad media coverage.
Another way to boost education funding is to join an association that funds educational projects. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is a non-profit arm of Microsoft, focusing on K-12 education in the United States. The foundation works with educators, communities, and policy makers to identify the problems facing children and implement innovative solutions to help these schools succeed. A few companies sponsor schools to support the education of children and ensure that the community benefits.
