Cultivate a mutually reciprocal partnership and host activities that are integrated into both the school and business cultures, driven by a clear management structure and defined by specific outcomes.

To realize the goal of improving overall scores on the annual state assessment, the partnership focuses on providing academic programs to enhance reading and writing skills. To this end, the partnership has introduced a literacy support program for students to work in small groups with a Schwan's volunteer. To promote writing skills, the partnership encourages e-mail exchange between students and Schwan's employees. Additionally, the partnership collaborates yearly on "Quality Month," a period in which quality work is emphasized in both the school and business arenas. Students of exceptional caliber are rewarded by the business in recognition of their strengths and accomplishments.

The partnership also encourages students to become involved within the community. For National Make-A-Difference-Day, the partnership provides aid each year to a local homeless shelter. The partnership was also featured in the city of Florence community Labor Day parade as a Business Education Success Teams (B.E.S.T.) partnership.

Finally, OMS encourages students to express appreciation for their business partner. In addition to inviting Schwan's employees to school events, students from OMS present musical and dramatic presentations at the Schwan's plant. This year, the partnership collaboratively developed a Safe Internet presentation for students, parents, Schwan's employees, and other community members.

The primary objectives of the partnership are to increase student achievement and promote literacy. The percentage of students testing below the district literacy standards in reading has dropped from 18 to 12 percent. In math, the percentage has dropped from 24 to 13 percent. OMS continues to meet or exceed their accountability goal on the Kentucky Core Content Test.

The partnership efforts between OMS and Schwan's also have been recognized by the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, 2003 and 2004, the partnership was named an "Outstanding B.E.S.T. Partnership." In 2005, the partnership was named "BEST of the B.E.S.T."

From 2002-2006, the partnership was recognized as a "Program of Distinction" for work on career-related programs and services. At annual Chamber of Commerce training events, partnership leaders have been asked to present ideas for
new partnerships.

The partnership has also been showcased in several news publications. "Schwan People," a company magazine, has printed articles about the "quality month" activities as well as their "student leadership training" program. They have also been featured in The Kentucky Post and The Boone County Recorder.