Programs & Initiatives

Partners in Education and its programs are administered by the Santa Barbara County Education Office.

Partners in Education has five main program areas.

● Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination

The Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination Program was designed in response to schools’ needs for support from the community. Partners recruits, trains and places volunteers from our community to strengthen the ability of schools to meet the needs of their students. Click here to learn more about this program.

● Career Education

Career Education has been a primary focus for Partners since 1977, supporting programs that prepare students for local jobs such as: Career Day, mock interviews, job shadows, high school academy programs and guest speakers in classrooms. Click here to learn more about this program.

● Student Internships and Career Exploration Program

Our Student Internship and Career Exploration Program seeks to assist disadvantaged youth in finding their own potential by arranging paid internship experiences with local businesses as well as providing training in preparation for entering the work force. Click here to learn more about this program.

● Technology Innovation and Teacher Training

Technology Innovation and Teacher Training is the focus of the Technology Committee, which links local high-tech companies with public schools. Through its Education Technology Ambassador Program, Partners supports teacher and schools using technology in the classroom, and highlights the power of technology to improve student achievement and parent involvement. Click here to learn more about this program.

● Computers for Families

Computers for Families is an award-winning program that seeks to bridge the digital divide that hinders low-income students from achieving academic success. This comprehensive program includes access to subsidized high-speed internet, training and ongoing technical support for teachers and families and a computer repair program at the Los Prietos Boys Camp. Click here to learn more about this program.