That American Education Week follows closely on the heels of Veterans Day could be no more apropos considering its origins.
This annual week long campaign came about after World War I, when the National Education Association and American Legion, concerned that 25 percent of the country’s World War I draftees were illiterate and 9 percent physically unfit, recognized a need to generate support for public education. Both organizations adopted resolutions of support for a national effort to raise public awareness of the importance of education. The first observance of American Education Week occurred December 4-10, 1921, with the NEA and American Legion as the cosponsors (National Education Association, 2014).
When did the idea of a universal public-educational system become an expectation in the United States? “School, the Story of American Public Education,” by Sarah Mondale and Sarah B Patton, available in both print and PBS DVD in Andersen Library, leads the reader or viewer through the history that has shaped the current average public school day for most students. Follow up with additional print and electronic titles such as The Myth of the Common School, and more.
Don’t miss the many screenings and speakers sponsored by the College of Education & Professional Studies throughout the week, starting with events today, Monday, November 16th:
2 Million Minutes 
Summer Auditorium 12:30-3:00
Screening & Discussion
“As soon as a student completes the 8th grade, the clock starts ticking. From that very moment the child has approximately Two Million Minutes until high school graduation…to build their intellectual foundation…to prepare for college and ultimately career…to go from a teenager to an adult.”
Also available for checkout from Andersen Library Browsing Collection, DVD Academic, 2nd Floor (LB1607 .T95 2007 )
Paper Tigers
Summers Auditorium 6:45-9:15 pm
Screening & Discussion
“Paper Tigers captures the pain, the danger, the beauty, and the hopes of struggling teens—and the teachers armed with new science and fresh approaches that are changing their lives for the better.” Donation of a non-perishable food donation for the Whitewater Food Pantry is requested.
