American Education Week November 14-20

Class at Comanche Elementary

November 12, 2010

With the holidays just around the corner, we’re heading into one of the busiest times of the year. But just before Thanksgiving, American Education Week is celebrated nationally from Nov. 14-20, and serves to focus our attention specifically on education issues.

Education is a hot topic, especially in the recent elections. It is part of the national discussion as never before. Much is at stake for the future of students and how they can be prepared to successfully compete locally, nationally and globally.

As an effective Board of Education, our constant focus is on student achievement as we address these educational issues through policies and allocate available resources toward providing the best education for Albuquerque Public Schools students. In making our decisions, we collaborate with Superintendent Brooks, review data, and seek your input to ensure that all students receive an equal, quality education.

As you prepare for the busy days ahead, remember that involvement in your child’s education is a critical part of his or her success. That involvement could be volunteering at school, helping your child with school work at home or staying in regular contact with the teacher.

American Education Week was first observed in 1921 with the NEA and American Legion as the co-sponsors. A year later, the U.S. Department of Education became another co-sponsor, later followed by the national PTA. Over the years other sponsors joined including the American Association of School Administrators, the National School Boards Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the American School Counselor Association, the Council of Chief State School Officers, the National School Public Relations Association, the National Association of State Boards of Education, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

During American Education Week, take a moment to thank that special teacher or other education professional who is making a difference in your child’s education. The website www.educationworld.com lists other activities parents, schools and the community can do to celebrate this special week.