Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/195036
American Education Week Nov. 18-22, 2013 Invite the public to celebrate their local public schools merican Education Week— November 18-22, 2013—presents all Americans with an opportunity to celebrate public education and honor individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education. The weeklong celebration features a special observance each day of the week. A Monday, November 18: Kickoff Day Nationwide Kickoff. Across the country, schools will celebrate excellence in education by hosting kickoff events and activities. Tuesday, November 19: Parents Day Schools will invite parents into the classroom for a firsthand look at what the school day is like for their children. Wednesday, November 20: Education Support Professionals Day Education Support Professionals keep schools running and students safe, healthy and ready to learn. Thursday, November 21: Educator for a Day Community leaders are invited to experience the day as educators and experience the challenges of teaching and the needs of students. Friday, November 22: Substitute Educators Day Substitute educators play a vital role in the maintenance and continuity of daily education. Where did American Education Week come from? Distressed that 25 percent of the country's World War I draftees were illiterate and nine percent were physically unfit, representatives of the NEA and the American Legion met in 1919 to seek ways to generate public support for education. The conventions of both organizations subsequently adopted resolutions of support for a national effort to raise public awareness of the importance of education. In 1921, the NEA Representative Assembly in Des Moines, Iowa, called for designation of one week each year to spotlight education. The first observance of American Education Week occurred December 4-10, 1921, with the NEA and American Legion as the cosponsors. 18 October 2013 DSEA ACTION! American Education Week is always celebrated the week prior to the week of Thanksgiving. For some interesting milestones in American Education, and an online tool kit (which includes ideas for celebrating American Education Week in your school and/or district, camera-ready posters, sample proclamations), go to www.nea. org/aew. www.nea. org/aew www.dsea.org