First Lady Francis Strickland issued invitations to county teams of individuals to discuss how to ensure community involvement in schools as a way of strengthening education in Ohio.  Counties represented were Marion, Crawford, Ashland, Seneca and Wyandot.

United Way joined Marion County Family & Children First Council, Marion County Children Services, North Central Ohio Educational Service Center, River Valley Schools and Marion City Schools to tackle this issue.

Marion County discussion focused on student-centered education with help from community partners like United Way and Family & Children First-funded programs.  Planning will continue with additional partners to improve graduation rates and non-traditional student options.