Posted November 18th, 2013
By Kris Powers
“If we want America to lead in the 21st century, nothing is more important than giving everyone the best education possible — from the day they start preschool to the day they start their career.”
—President Barack Obama
In 1919, the NEA and the American Legion sought ways to generate public support for education. Their efforts resulted in a national effort to raise public awareness of the importance of education. In 1921, the NEA called for: "An educational week ... observed in all communities annually for the purpose of informing the public of the accomplishments and needs of the public schools and to secure the cooperation and support of the public in meeting those needs."
American Education Week—November 18-22, 2013—presents all Americans with a wonderful opportunity to celebrate public education and honor the individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every student receives a quality education. It also celebrates the overall importance of education and the institutions that help meet the instructional needs of students across the United States. The weeklong celebration features a special observance each day of the week.
In their article, “The Importance of Education: An Economics View”, authors Michael Greenstone and Adam Looney wrote,”a strong education system has been the backbone of the American Dream—providing each generation with the opportunity to do better than the last.”
Colleges and Universities are celebrating American Education Week in a myriad of ways. For example:
Northcentral University (NCU), a global online, graduate-focused university, is offering the Celebrating Education scholarships to mark the 92nd American Education Week (11/18 to 11/22). Northcentral University will award one (1) $10,000 scholarship, and three (3) $5,000 scholarships, to students pursuing a degree at NCU.
http://www.ncu.edu/tuition-and-admissions/scholarships
The Army Continuing Education System is holding an Education Fair, entitled "Army Continuing Education-Strength and Resiliency through Education".
http://www.lee.army.mil/pao/fort_lee_homepage/events/102413educationfair.pdf
Benedict College will join school districts nationwide in celebrating American Education Week (AEW). This year's theme, "Raise your hand for student success," reflects a call to provide students with quality public schools so that they can grow, prosper, and achieve in the 21st century.
http://www.benedict.edu/cms/?q=node/
Morris College’s Division of Education will recognize American Education Week 2013 with several activities, including an Education Assembly on Thursday, November 21st.
http://www.morris.edu/american-education-week-2013-2013-11-18
Programs and resources provided by the UW-Madison School of Education in conjunction with American Education Week include:
An event titled, “Exploring a Route Toward Adoption of the Common Core” as well as Den Julie Underwood's presentation, "Readying our Public Education for Politics and Privatization.” During her presentation, Dean Underwood will explore the privatization of education in the United States and what it means for the future of public education and this cornerstone of democracy.
This week and every week, please take a moment to thank those who are making a difference in the education and future of today's students!
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