Volunteers In Public Schools (VIPS) hosted its Partners In Education Business Roundtable December 14 at the Instructional Resource Center with East Baton Rouge Parish School System representatives and business leaders to discuss the upcoming budget cuts in public education and what to expect in the coming year. 
 
Greg Albrecht, chief economist of the state’s Legislative Fiscal Office (pictured center, blue shirt), shared information about the current state of the Louisiana's economic climate.  In addition, James Crochet, chief financial officer of the East Baton Rouge Parish School System discussed the district’s current budget and what to expect for 2011. 

"Difficult financial times are currently being experienced by most Louisiana School Districts.  More community support is required to protect and cultivate the most valuable asset to Baton Rouge's future, the children," said Crochet. 
 
The VIPS Partners In Education Business Roundtable Series gives the business community the opportunity to gather and discuss current issues facing public education and offer direct opportunities for making a significant impact through school partnership. Turner Industries, Star Service, MWH Global and Kean Miller Attorneys at Law are among the various businesses that will be represented at the December Roundtable. 

The Business Roundtable is open to the public and reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis.  To reserve your seat in January, call (225) 226-4706 or e-mail alau@ebrschools.org.