With a new name and the same commitment to local schools, the former Lawrence Business/Education Partnership is ready to embark on its second decade.

The group celebrated its 10th anniversary Tuesday by introducing a new name — Lawrence Education Achievement Partners — and recognizing some of the ways businesses and other community groups have benefited local school children.

The partnership began in 1993 as a cooperative effort of the Lawrence school district and the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the program was to pair local businesses with schools where they could enrich the educational opportunities. The organization now boasts 110 partnerships with Lawrence’s 22 schools. Partners provide monetary support as well as giving time to work directly with students and teachers on a variety of projects.

Especially in the current tough economic times, efforts like those championed by LEAP are important to preserving the quality of K-12 education. LEAP is a great example of how even residents without school-age children can support local schools.