Chemours, Franklin Elementary Center ink Partners in Education pact

PARKERSBURG -- Chemours at the Washington Works became a Partner in Education with Franklin Elementary Center on Feb. 25.

The signing ceremony included Franklin Principal Ryan McIntyre, Chemours Regional Communications Manager Sierra Gard, Wood County Schools Superintendent Christie Willis and CEO Jill Parsons of the Chamber of Commerce of the Mid-Ohio Valley. Partners in Education is a program of the Chamber of Commerce.

Chemours and Franklin have shared an informal bond for years. The Partner in Education program is expected to benefit the school's more than 260 students through its technical expertise and volunteer base to enhance Franklin's existing robotics and STEM curriculum.

Chemours, a global chemical company, at the Washington Works is among the region's largest employers.

"At Franklin, we believe that inspiring the next generation of innovators starts with giving students hands-on, high-impact experiences," McIntyre said. "Our partnership with Chemours strengthens that commitment by bringing exciting STEM opportunities directly into our classrooms, from virtual reality exploration and robotics to engaging science demonstrations and fire safety education led by dedicated Chemours volunteers. We're grateful for Chemours' investment in our students and community."

The partnership aligns with Chemours' commitment to nurturing STEM talent in the communities where they operate by providing students with early exposure to engineering and chemistry, according to Gard.

The collaboration will include volunteer-led safety demonstrations and support for the school's growing robotics programs.

"This partnership represents our commitment to Franklin Elementary and the Wood County community," Gard said. "By providing hands-on STEM experiences, this collaboration helps spark curiosity, build confidence and connect classroom learning to real-world possibilities, strengthening both students and the broader community. We hope this partnership continues to grow, inspiring students over time."

For more information about how an organization can participate in the program, call the Chamber of Commerce at 304-422-3588 or email info@movchamber.org.