Business and Education Partners Come Together for Annual Partners-in-Education Breakfast

Around 150 business leaders, principals and school personnel came together on August 13 for the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce’s 2026-2027 Partners-in-Education Breakfast and Work Session at the DoubleTree by Hilton Decatur Riverfront.

The annual event gives business partners and local schools an opportunity to connect, discuss goals and identify ways they can work together to support students throughout the school year. Students also played a role in the morning’s program. Hartselle High School senior Beau Black led the prayer, Woodmeade Elementary fifth grader Jared Snead led the Pledge of Allegiance and the Austin High School JROTC presented the colors.

B.E.S.T. Pre-K Academy Principal Jennifer Edwards shared the many ways The J.M. Smucker Company supported the school during its inaugural year. The company provided a $15,000 donation at the beginning of the year and continued to invest in tools, resources and experiences that directly benefit students and teachers.

Following the breakfast, school representatives and their business partners participated in a work session to discuss plans, opportunities and goals for the 2026-2027 school year.

Partners-in-Education is a long-standing Chamber initiative that strengthens the bond between our businesses and schools, helping build a bright future for students across Decatur-Morgan County. Thank you to presenting sponsor Redstone Federal Credit Union and gold sponsors Athens State University and Decatur Coca-Cola Bottling Company.