By the time you read this article, the much-anticipated opening of our local schools will have arrived. Teachers have been preparing for the return to the classroom—in-person, virtual or the combination that will best keep students and staff safe and ready to learn.

In the spring, we introduced VenangoREADY, an initiative to prepare students for a life of work. Teachers were enthusiastic about integrating the six attributes into classrooms. Now we want to engage our businesses in the initiative, to further reinforce the importance of developing character skills that make our workplaces productive, profitable, and healthy environments.

We are asking you to join us in supporting VenangoREADY and adding your business to the list of those who value any or all of six the attributes. You can complete our form at venangoready.org, to be added and to consider additional ways to support work readiness.