DCEF hosted an early morning breakfast aimed at increasing communication between the community and the school district. Business partners, government officials and school district administrative staff had an opportunity to unite and discuss ways that sustainable partnerships could be built.

“School isn’t about more school…it’s eventually about getting a job, supporting yourself and giving back to the community,” said Dr. Karyn Gary, Superintendent of DeSoto County Schools.

More than 70 persons attended the event in January 2014, which was the second time the breakfast meeting had been held. “This will be an annual event,” stated Martha Jo Markey, Executive Director of DCEF. “It’s important that the community and the schools listen to each other and work together toward an educational system built on sound educational practices…and the community needs to be a working partner in this mission.”