1. REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT Region 8 – Standard 5: Partnerships

2. Parterships  Communication w/ Parents and larger community  Websites (providing “FAQ” section)  Parent Newsletters (providing links to website)  Remind 101 (McDowell) – via text messaging  ConnectEd messages

3. Partnerships  Involvement of Higher Education Institutions  UNCA  WCU – research studies, participate on Advisory Board (Asheville City)  Parental Involvement  McDowell County – E3 Spotlight  Macon County - Parent Nights (curriculum nights, “Parent University” nights, project based work – “Poetry Slam”, “Fun Friday” activities )  Asheville City – newly revised Parent (and student) Transition meetings, AIG Parent University (middle school)

4. Partnerships  Collaboration with other “gifted experts” in the field  Pockets of Excellence Tour – research excellent practices and strategic visit those districts  Collaboration meetings with other certified support staff – like the Literacy Coaches, Instructional Technology Facilitators, and vertically teaming with other AIG Specialists across the district (elementary meeting with middle school) – in a PLC environment.

5. Partnerships  Involvement of Community members  Jackson County -- Participation w/ state-wide “mock trials” through participation w/ local attorneys  Asheville City - - Partnering w/ local business alliance to provide internships and mentorship opportunities for students (especially underserved populations)  Madison County – partnering w/ local “Communities in Schools”

6. Partnerships  Asheville City  All stakeholders involved – district administration, school administration, teachers, certified support staff (counselors, social workers, psychologists), parents, and STUDENTS.  Purpose  Reflection & Advocacy  Quarterly meetings  Standard groups – focus on particular concerns of each standard and report to larger group Advisory BoardsFunction…

7. Partnerships: Next steps/ concerns  Many districts interested in PAGE chapter or other group.  Further involvement of students (through focus groups and surveys to determine needs and appropriate direction w/ new partnerships)