NBC News’ ‘Education Nation’ initiative, which began on Sunday September 26, will provide a weeklong, nationwide forum where national leaders, parents, teachers and students can air their views and express their concerns on the challenges facing the American education system.
President Obama appeared live on NBC’s Today Show on Monday. The president said that money alone is not the answer to the problems of today’s school system, underlining the importance of tying funding to specific reform programs, such as extending the school year and promoting better teacher training. Obama acknowledged that schools located in poorer areas would benefit by more funding, but “… money without reform will not fix the problem,” he said.
The focal point of the NBC initiative is the ‘Education Nation’ Summit, held in New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza and attended by policymakers, teachers, members of the business community, and citizens. New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg opened the two-day summit Monday morning.
On Monday afternoon, Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced new programs to attract more college students to the field of education. Founding Chairman of ‘America’s Promise Alliance’, General Colin, and current Chair Alma Powell were also interviewed at NYC’s Rockefeller Plaza early Monday morning. Twelve panel sessions will explore central issues related to the U.S. education system during the summit.
“Education Nation” began on Sunday with a ‘Teacher Town Hall,’ hosted by NBC’s Brian Williams. Thousands of teachers across the country participated (on-air and online) in the nationally broadcast event.
NBC’s Education Nation initiative is receiving cross-network on-air coverage throughout the week, and discussions will continue online at EducationNation.com, iVillage and MSNBC.com.