PUTNAM COUNTY, Tenn. — A growing relationship between the Putnam County School System, Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses was on display recently at Baxter Primary School.

Four local businesses became official ‘adopters’ of the school during a ceremony with students, faculty, staff, and local dignitaries.

“We are so excited to partner with our businesses and our schools throughout Putnam County to bring opportunities like this to fruition,” said Chamber President and CEO Amy New. “We have 220 adopters across the county that we are so appreciative of.”

Portobello America, Sentry Shred, Burton Trucking & Repair, and Baxter Family Dentistry joined the ranks of BPS current adopters Progressing Sentencing, Inc., Regions Bank, Whistle Stop, Putnam 1st Mercantile Bank, American Bank and Trust of the Cumberlands, Winell Lee, One Bank of Tennessee, Smart Bank, and Tennessee Credit Union in supporting the school.

“The adopters mean so many different things,” said BPS Principal Marsha Wyatt. “They partner with us to ensure we have so many things, monetarily. Sometimes, they come and help volunteer in the school. They might partner with us as a big brother or a big sister for the students who might need a little TLC. We are hoping to build those relationships with those new adopters.”

The adopter program has been around for years, but it has recently been revitalized by the Chamber which is raising awareness of the beneficial relationship between a local business and a local school.

“This is a great partnership we have with the Chamber of Commerce,” said PCSS Director Corby King. “We talk all the time about our schools being community schools, and this is an excellent example of how that partnership works together.”

The adopter program is not only beneficial to the schools but also for the local businesses.

“When you go to the ball fields and the gymnasiums, you see the banners of our local businesses,” continued King. “We encourage people to shop locally and support the businesses that support the chamber and the businesses that support our schools and our students, and the great things we have going on in Putnam County.”

Three more adoption ceremonies are scheduled to celebrate new adopters. Events will be held at Algood Middle School on Nov. 3 at 9 a.m., White Plains Academy on Dec. 15 at 8:30 a.m., and Capshaw Elementary School on Jan. 12 at 9 a.m.

Businesses can learn more and apply to be an adopter or contact Natalie Saxon at the Chamber at nsaxon@cookevillechamber.com or (931) 526-2211.