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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual
collections.
Collection: Deaver, Michael
Folder Title: [Education: National
Partnerships in Education] (1)
Box: 37
To see more digitized collections
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories
visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives
Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
12/12/83
MEMO TO MICHAEL CASTINE
FROM:
BILL SITTMANN
SUBJ:
The attached
Would you give Michael K. Deaver
a report on who in the White
House has responded to MKD memo
regarding the Adopt - a- School.
Bill-Have Thanks. Mile Read
Element II in Blue Folder
MC
Biu is good
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
glvin 2 stillers whe
December 8, 1983
MEMORANDUM TO MICHAEL K. DEAVER
FROM:
SUBJECT:
JAMES K. COYNE JKC
UPDATE ON PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION PROGRAM
Following the October 13 announcement of a Nationwide Partnerships
in Education Program and the White House involvement with
Congress Heights Elementary School, a great deal of enthusiasm
has been generated across the country.
I. Partnerships in Education Program
Ten Regional Conferences - sponsored by the National Community
Education Assocation and the National School Volunteer Program
will invite business leaders and education representatives to
a "how-to" seminar on Partnerships in Education.
CNA Insurance Corporation - has developed and printed a generic
brochure on the program. 50,000 copies have been printed and
have been made available to trade organizations, business groups
and members of Congress.
National Association of Manufacturers - in its December newsletter,
has asked its 40,000 members to take up the President's challenge.
American Association of School Administrators - has adopted
"Partnerships: Key to Excellence" as this year's theme, following
the October 13 announcement.
American Marketing Association - has offered to help coordinate
the program through their professional chapters located in 75
major cities.
Cleveland Growth Association - has prepared a "National Profile
of Business Assistance to City Public School Systems,' outlining
programs which are already in place for possible replication.
Baltimore Gas and Electric and Memphis Adopt-a-School Program - have
each prepared detailed manuals on how business/schools can form
partnerships.
American Bar Association - after its announcement of the MENTOR
Program in New York on October 13, has now committed to replicating
that program in 13 major cities across the nation.
National Association of Elementary School Principals - has offered
support and Association emphasis on school year 1983-84.
2
Federal Express Corporation - since their Oct. 13 involvement,
have sent a letter encouraging involvement by their 200 affiliates.
To date, one affiliate has adopted one elementary school in Colorado.
Indianapolis Partnerships in Education Program - has recently
been expanded to involve all high schools and all inner-city
schools.
Memphis Adopt-a-School Program - out of their goal of having
all 154 schools adopted in the Memphis City School area, they
have 8 schools left. Over 160 businesses are involved in the
program with many schools having more than one adoptor. They
have asked President Reagan to speak at their annual conference
in the Spring, when they plan to announce that every school in
Memphis has been adopted.
Xerox Corporation - expect first quarter 1984 kickoff of their
$5 million grant of Xerox personal computers to school systems
administered through the National Urban League.
Boston - The Boston Compact Program has increased their in-school
job career preparation program from 7 to 10 high schools. Have
274 businesses committed to hiring 1,200 public school students
for summer jobs. Have placed 415 graduating seniors from 1983
in paid permanent jobs.
ABC, Inc. - have sent a letter to their 214 stations encouraging
their involvement in the Partnerships in Education Program, quoting
the President in their cover letter.
CBS Television Stations - announced on November 17 that three
of their five owned stations have adopted schools, and the other
two will adopt a school before the year is out.
Tigard Public Schools - in Tigard, Oregon commended the President's
initiative and has offered their school up for "adoption."
Senator Paul Trible - has asked to take the lead on the Partnerships
in Education Program. He plans to personally adopt 5 schools in
the State of Virginia as well as preparing Dear Colleague Letters,
and proposing that next year be designated the Year of Partnerships
in Excellence.
II. White House/Congress Heights
Following your November 13 memo to White House staff:
52 people-have responded with varying offers of assistance.
The White House Partnerships Program has been divided into
ten categories, including tutoring, speaking, field trips,
pen pals, shadowing, financial, entertainment, computers,
equipment/supplies and athletics.
3
Students have visited the White House - to watch the President
and Mrs. Reagan depart for Camp David followed by a tour on
October 14.
Thanksgiving Dinner - was held at the school and James Coyne
attended and carried a donation of books from a White House staffer.
David Prowse - the actor who portrays Darth Vader spoke to
a school assembly on traffic safety and autographed pictures.
Mrs. Bush - invited 60 4th graders to watch her place the Christmas
tree ornament on top of the National Christmas Tree. This was
followed by a White House tour.
Teachers and facility - met with PSI staff to identify needs
and match White House offers of assistance with classroom objectives.
That White House list is now with the principal who will followup
with our office to match tutors/speakers/offers of assistance
with classroom curriculum. White House participation expected
to begin January 1.
Arrival Ceremony for King and Queen of Nepal - was attended
by 45 3rd graders. Guest Services provided complimentary
hot chocolate to the students in the OEOB following the ceremony.
Goddard Space Center - in Baltimore has provided a tour of the
facilities followed by a demonstration to 65 students of
Congress Heights.
Mrs. Reagan - following her photo opportunity with Baryshnikov,
will present 50 complimentary tickets to "Cinderella" to the
students of Congress Heights.
Houston Marshall - responding to a request for audio/visual
equipment, donated a VCR machine to Congress Heights.
Naval Research Lab - has invited 75 Congress Heights students
to a Christmas Party on December 19. PSI staff member will
deliver White House Children's books to event.
Advance Office - will designate an area at the Pageant of Peace
Ceremony on the Ellipse for Congress Heights children and parents.
Visitors Office - has invited entire school to tour White House
on December 14. Roughly 513 children and teachers will attend.
4
III. Executive Departments/Agency Participation
Following the President's memorandum to agency
and deparment heads:
27 agencies/departments - have responded to the President's
memo and have requested further information.
D.C. Superintendent of Schools - is working directly with
the U.S. Postal Service, OPIC, and the U.S. Dept. Labor
on available schools.
Office of Personal Management - has been directly linked
with a Maryland School to develop a partnership.
Department of Defense - has issued a policy statement to
encourage all units to encourage participation in voluntary
education partnerships. Also, participating in PIE
regional conferences, and have established an intradepartmental
working group to implement guidance on education partnerships.
They have already adopted schools in San Diego, Chicago,
Philadelphia and San Francisco. They will be adopting a
school in Washington, D.C.
Federal Trade Commission - Chairman officially launched the
program in the Commission and has established a Partnership
in Education division for implementation of the plan. Press
release issued.
ACTION - has announced that before Christmas, they will have
adopted a school in the metropolitan area.
Smithsonian Institution - Developed a "Career Awareness Program"
involving tours and assembly presentation at the elementary
and secondary schools. Including article in national publication
which reaches most of the elementary and secondary schools in
the Nation.
DC Public School System - will participate in the White House
briefing for Agency/Department representatives on their
involvement in the Partnerships in Education Program. School
Superintendent Floretta McKenzie has prepared a packet of
information on the DC school system and their partnership
programs. The cover letter thanks individuals for responding
to the President's challenge for more Partnerships in Education.
Briefing will be held in Room 450 on December 19 or 20.
IV. Department of Education
Under the Office of Planning, Budget and Evaluation, the
following aspects of the Partnerships in Education will be
carried out.
Specific recommendations - insuring that various education associations
are included in the program so that they can support and encourage
the participation of their membership.
Specific recommendations - to thoroughly involve the private sector
in this initiative. Trade associations and service organizations
5
are a natural vehicle.
Department of Education Plan - to address the problem of
recruiting partners for the disadvantaged schools.
Assist DATA/NET - in keeping a tally of the number of
partnerships developed.
Provide DOE funding - including staffing capabilities to
implement this initiative, as available.
REPORT ON
PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION
PROGRAM
12/9/83
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
AGENDA
National Partnerships in Education Program
October 13, 1983
East Room
1:00 - 3:00 P.M.
Opening Remarks, Welcome
James K. Coyne
Special Assistant to the President
Private Sector Initiatives
Partnerships in Education
Terrel H. Bell
Secretary of Education
The Department of Defense's Education Program
Lawrence J. Korb
Assistant Secretary
New Initiatives by the Networks:
NBC
Robert E. Mulholland
President
CBS
Neil Derrough
President
ABC
James E. Duffy
President
Presidential Remarks
Videotape on Partnerships in Education
Panel Discussion
James Coyne, Moderator
Barbara Russell
Director, Memphis Adopt-A-School Program
James Barksdale
Vice President, Federal Express
Wallace Riley
President, American Bar Association
John Cardinal Krol
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Floretta McKenzie
Washington, D.C. Superintendent of Schools
Sandra Feldman
Executive Director, United Federation of Teachers
Jeffrey Campbell
Chief Executive Officer, Burger King Corporation
Margaret Dwyer
Director of School/Business,
Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce
Douglas Reid
Vice President, Xerox Corporation
Carol Monell-Pugmire
Coordinator, San Diego Department of Education
Reception and demonstration of DATA/NET
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of Private Sector Initiatives
For Immediate Release
October 13, 1983
The President launched the National Partnerships in Education
Program today in a White House ceremony, with 150 representatives
of business, schools, government and trade associations in
attendance. He commended the positive role the business
community has taken in improving the quality of education in
local communities, and issued a challenge "that everyone of our
country's public, private, and parochial schools and community
colleges --- all 110,000 of them --- will have formed partnerships
in education.'
In addition to encouraging the private sector to participate in
this program to upgrade the quality of education, the President
directed the Federal Government to promote partnerships in
education in every way that it can. James K. Coyne, Special
Assistant to the President for Private Sector Initiatives and his
staff were directed to work on this program throughout the year.
In describing the Partnerships in Education program, the
President said, "Across the country, groups of working men and
women have been forming partnerships with schools -- partnerships
in education. To form a partnership, volunteers from a business,
government agency, or other organization strike an agreement with
a school to develop programs that will help the school's students
in a number of basic ways. The volunteers might tutor students,
establish scholarship funds, donate furniture and equipment, or
teach classes."
This program was transmitted by closed-circuit TV, through the
cooperation of WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., to the students,
teachers, and parents of Congress Heights Elementary School. In
a surprise announcement, the President informed Bill Dalton,
Principal of the school, that the White House was forging a
partnership with Congress Heights.
By Presidential Proclamation, the 1983-84 school year has been
named "National Year of Partnerships in Education".
This program is another example of the President's continued
support for the private sector initiatives program and for the
high priority he has assigned to encouraging private sector
initiatives to solve social and economic problems throughout
America.
# # #
CONTACT: James K. Coyne, Special Assistant to the President
White House Office of Private Sector Initiatives
(202) 456-6676
ABC Television Network
1330 Avenue of the Americas New York, New York 10019 Telephone 212 887-7463
James E. Duffy, President
October 11, 1983
The President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
On behalf of ABC Television, I wish to congratulate
you on the occasion of the official launch of
"Partnerships-In-Education."
In response to your call to action to businesses
across the country, ABC will focus national attention
on education in America in a week-long series on
"Good Morning America" airing October 24-28. An
entire segment will be devoted to a successful adopt-
a-school project in San Diego.
In the coming year, we will support "Partnerships-In-
Education" with community relations projects which will
be implemented in cooperation with our owned and
affiliated stations.
ABC is proud to join those corporations who regard
education in America as a top priority and a key to
the future of our country's growth and prosperity.
Sincerely,
JED:cvh
CBS
TELEVISION
STATIONS
A Division of CBS Inc.
51 West 52 Street
New York, New York 10019
(212) 975-6710
Neil E. Derrough, President
Dear Jim:
November 17, 1983
Thank you for sending me the picture that was taken at The
White House. It will be a nice keepsake and remembrance
of my visit.
Just this week I attended a meeting here in New York of the
executives from each of our five owned stations where we
discussed in great detail the Adopt A School project that
we have committed to. The ideas were interesting, imagi-
native and practical. Three of the five stations have
already adopted a school in their community. The other
two will adopt a school before the year is out.
The most important part of this project, I think, is that
it's creating an awareness of the Adopt A School concept
and acting as a catalyst to encourage other businesses to
participate. I am quite optimistic about our ability to
do this effectively.
I will keep you informed of our progress. It is rewarding
to work with you, as well as others in this worthwhile
venture.
Cordially,
Mil
Mr. James K. Coyne
Special Assistant to
the President
Private Sector Initiatives
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20050
CBS
TELEVISION
STATIONS
A Division of CBS Inc.
51 West 52 Street
New York, New York 10019
(212) 975-6710
Neil E. Derrough, President
Dear Mr. President:
September 29, 1983
In response to your call for greater involvement by business
in the schools of this country, the five CBS Owned Television
Stations plan to become involved in the adopt-a-school concept
for the 1983-84 school year. It is the hope of the station
managers that they can find an appropriate way for the station
in each city to adopt an individual school. It is also their
intention to serve as a catalyst for other businesses to
participate as well.
The cities where CBS owns stations, and the managers names,
are: WCBS-TV, New York, Peter Lund; WCAU-TV, Philadelphia,
Steve Cohen; WBBM-TV, Chicago, Eric Ober; KMOX-TV, St. Louis,
Allan Cohen; and KNXT, Los Angeles, James Bennett.
Our stations look forward to the significant benefits they
believe can flow from greater involvement by all segments
of society in our school system.
Cordially,
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20050
NBC
National Broadcasting Company, Inc.
Thirty Rockefeller Plaza
New York, N.Y. 10020 212-664-5145
Robert E. Mulholland
President
October 11, 1983
and Chief Operating Officer
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
20500
Dear Mr. President:
We at NBC are honored to join you in initiating
the National Partnerships in Education Program.
The Program both celebrates and stimulates the
kind of fruitful relationship business today can
have with our country's future by nurturing our
nation's schools.
NBC has expressed its commitment to that kind of
partnership here in Washington with the adoption
in 1981 of the Ellington School for the Arts by
our owned station, WRC-TV.
As an adoptive parent, we are very much involved
in the life of the school. Our station's general
manager serves on the Ellington Fund Board; we
contribute to the fund itself; and we award
annually a community service scholarship to a
graduating senior.
We also like to use the unique nature of our
business to express our concern for the young
people of this school. For instance, WRC-TV has
produced a prime time fund-raising special,
BLACK TOP REVIEW, featuring Ellington students.
And we've contributed to classroom instruction,
career counseling, and library acquisitions. We
feel close to the school. And we like that.
NBC
The President
October 11, 1983
Page Two
As a total corporation, we've also been
committed to our own partnership with education
and with encouraging other corporations to be
partners. As an active partner, we regularly
distribute viewer guides to schools on programs
we think will be of special interest to
students, as well as make programs available to
educators for non-broadcast use. And we've used
our medium to help educate students and adults
on serious problems that particularly affect
young people, substance abuse and missing
children among them.
As an advocate of partnerships with education,
we've accepted an invitation to be on the board
of directors of the National Association for
Industry-Education Cooperation.
We think such partnerships are a great thing,
not just for the schools, not just for the
students. They are good for us.
We are proud to be part of the Program you are
initiating today. We think it will encourage
other businesses to do something that will be
good for them, good for the nation, good for our
young people.
Sincerely,
Guest Forum
Partnerships in Education
By James K. Coyne
November 1983
Special Assistant to President Reagan
For Private Sector Initiatives
P
artnerships between the business community and public
schools are founded on the basic premise that quality educa-
tion is everybody's business. Successful Partnerships in Edu-
cation take many forms, including released time and loaned person-
nel from business to the schools. Perhaps the most popular form of
partnership is the Adopt-A-School program which has developed
independently between businesses and schools throughout the
country. From Maine to California and from Tennessee to Hawaii,
Adopt-A-School programs have appeared wherever concerned citi-
zens have taken an interest in improving the quality of education in
their community.
Until recently, however, there has been no broad-based national
effort to encourage more partnerships between the private sector
and public education. On October 13 President Reagan launched
the National Partnerships in Education Program in a White House
ceremony, with 150 representatives of business. schools, govern-
ment and trade associations in attendance. He commended the posi-
tive role the business community has taken in improving the quality
of education in local communities, and issued a challenge "that
every one of our country's public, private, and parochial schools and
community colleges-all 110,000 of them-will have formed part-
nerships in education."
In addition to encouraging the private sector to participate in this
program to upgrade education, the President directed the federal
government to promote partnerships in education in every way that
it can. The President directed me and my staff to work on this pro-
gram throughout the year.
Engineering
Published by the National Society of Professional Engineers
I
n describing the Partnerships in Education program, the Presi-
dent said, "Across the country, groups of working men and
women have been forming partnerships with schools-part-
nerships in education. To form a partnership, volunteers from a
business, government agency, or other organization strike an agree-
ment with a school to develop programs that will help the school's
students in a number of basic ways. The volunteers might tutor stu-
dents, establish scholarship funds, donate furniture and equip-
ment, or teach classes."
The White House launching ceremony was transmitted by closed-
circuit TV, through the cooperation of WJLA-TV in Washington.
D.C., to the students, teachers. and parents of Congress Heights Ele-
mentary School in the Anacostia section of the District of Columbia.
In a surprise announcement, the President informed Bill Dalton.
principal of the school, that the White House was forging a partner-
ship with Congress Heights.
To stress the importance of partnership relationships, by Presi-
dential Proclamation, the 1983-1984 school year was named "Na-
tional Year of Partnerships in Education."
Through Adopt-A-School, concerned citizens in the business
community, educators, and students develop a unique partnership
that helps strengthen the educational process. These partnerships
foster a better understanding of the community's school system-
strengthens and improves school programs and curricula-creates
a climate of involvement and interaction between businesses and
schools-and involves the community in preparing for its own eco-
nomic future through the quality education of its young people.
N
o profession can do more than the engineering profession
to help achieve excellence in education, especially in the
areas of math and science. Scientists and engineers recog-
nize the seriousness of the problem and by joining together with pri-
vate sector groups can stimulate in our young people a renewed in-
terest in the excitement and value of mathematics and science.
One program that comes to mind is the MATHCOUNTS pro-
News and
Commentary
Of the
Profession
Volume 5, No. 11
gram. This program. sponsored by the National Society of Profes-
sional Engineers, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
the CNA Insurance Companies and the National Science Founda-
tion could involve as many as 7.4 million 7th and 8th grade students
who will enter the program and be coached in accelerated math
topics. The engineering professionals involved in this program say
that it is necessary to promote math to this age group as an exciting
and challenging experience in order to ensure a technically literate
population. And it is working.
I can condense participation in the Partnerships in Education
program to caring, sharing and investing. Caring enough to be-
come involved. Sharing experience, expertise and time. Investing
in the future of America by becoming involved in education-a way
to reach and influence the future leaders of America-our current
crop of students.
AS
November 14,1983
President Ronald Reagan
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear President Reagan,
You have done it again! You have led out in a small, but powerful
way to show what should be done, and must be done to correct the problems
in America.
I am referring to the adoption of the Congress Heights Elementary
School by the White House. This means that White House staff will get
a first hand view-better than that-a working expaerience in a school
setting with less than privileged children. Were you speaking and I
could stand and applaud, I would do so.
The fact that no Federal money will be expended is another plus--
just honest, roll-up-your-sleeves-and-help kind of effort. That is what
America needs today. Tnank you for placing a beacon on the hill. The
light gives some of us in the trenches the courage to carry on.
Will the aide who reads this letter kindly make copies and give to
every staff member who actually helps at that Elementary school. While
I have addressed it to the President, I mean every word for everyone who
helps. Thanks and good luck!
An appreciative teacher,
Roy allew Venney
Roy Allen Tenney
RAT/hs
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION
OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS
November 9, 1983
The Honorable James K. Coyne
Special Assistant to the President
Private Sector Initiatives
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Jim:
Thank you for sharing materials about the National Year of
Partnerships in Education. You'll be pleased to know that our
theme for this year at the American Association of School Adminis-
trators is "Partnerships: Key to Excellence." We are working
to build those partnerships in many ways.
I am enclosing a copy of the logo we have developed for our
efforts. You may find use for it in showing how efforts are
moving forward.
Please let us know how we can work with you.
Lan
Associate Executive Director
(703) 528-0700
1801 North Moore Street
Arlington, Virginia 22209
Memoris
CitySchools
Memphis City Schools
2597 Avery Avenue
Memphis, Tennessee 38112
Phone (901) 454-5200
189364
November 23, 1983
Mr. Michael Deaver
Deputy Chief of Staff
White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
SUBJECT: Second National Adopt-A-School Seminar
Dear Mr. Deaver:
It is my hope that you will look favorably upon our request that you
help us get President Reagan to be our keynote speaker for the Second
National Adopt-A-School Seminar in Memphis on April 11, 1984. I am
sure you are aware the President has declared 1983-84 as National Part-
nerships in Education Year. We think it would be an appropriate time
for the President to give an up-date on the progress of the White House
Private Sector Initiatives at our seminar. I have spoken with Mr. James
Coyne, Special Assistant to the President, Private Sector Initatives,
and he concurs with our thinking.
You may wish to refer to the White House video-tape covering the kick-
off meeting in the East Room on October 13, at which time I was a
speaker on the program (see attached).
Memphis has been a leader in the Adopt-A-School movement. We are in our
fifth year, and our program is highly successful with all but ten of our
schools adopted. However, it is our plan to have every school adopted
by the time the President would speak at our seminar.
Our governor, Lamar Alexander, is providing great leadership in education
with his Better Schools Program. Also, Tennessee is known as the
Volunteer State. We feel that all of this fits into President Reagan's
approach to solving some of the problems in education.
Mr. Deaver, realizing that you must receive thousands of requests like
mine, I know your time is limited for reading material. Therefore, I
offer only a copy of our ABC's of Adopt-A-School for your review. This
Mr. Michael Deaver
November 23, 1983
Page 2
material is being sent out daily (upon request) to other cities. I
would be happy to supply additional support information regarding our
program or answer any questions you might have.
May I please hear from you regarding your decision in this matter. My
telephone number is (901) 454-5364.
Sincerely yours,
Barbara Russell
Barbara Russell
Adopt-A-School Director
RB/jg
Enclosures
Tigard Public Schools, District 23j
Twality Junior High
14650 S.W. 97th
Tigard, Oregon 97223
Jik.cryn Area Code (503)620-1620
October 17, 1983
The President
The White House
Washington D. C.
20020
Sir:
When I read the short article "School Adopted" in this morning's issue of the
Portland Oregonian I was impressed.
For the first time in my life I phoned the White House and was tremendously
pleased with the courtesy and efficiency on the part of your staff.
The receptionist referred me to the Executive Branch and I had a friendly and
informative chat with a Mrs. Bauer (perhaps spelled Bower). She is to be
commended.
I volunteered our school to be "adopted" in the "Partnerships in Education"
program. Because of Oregon's interest in the affairs of the Department of
Interior I suggested that Mr. William Clark, upon his confirmation, would make
an appropriate sponsor.
Twality Junior High is a suburban school with a total of 830 students in grades
7, 8, and 9. We are just 22 miles from Portland International Airport.
Twality will be in it's 25th year at the start of our next school year (1984-85).
We will be planning some special activities in recognition of serving our
community for a quarter of a century.
I have been principal of this school since it opened in the fall of 1960. This
year I am president-elect of the Oregon Association of Secondary School Adminis-
trators and will serve as president during the 1984-85 academic year.
Once again, your staff is to be commended. Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully,
Arthur A. Biederman
Principal
AAB/ji
175925
HAROLD WEINSTEIN, M.D.
1820 AVENUE V
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11229
(212) 743-1399
HS
Oct. 29, 1983
Mr. James K. Coyne
Special Assistant to the President
Office of Private Sector Initiatives
The White House
Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Coyne:
I have received the literature, the President's, "Partnerships in
Education" you have forwarded to me. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.
If ever you are in Brooklyn on a Sunday morning we would be honored
to have you visit with us and witness a most heart-warming and beautiful
sight. You will see second and third graders being taught the basic
skills on an individual basis by older gifted children and supervised
by licensed teachers. You will see unusual teaching aids that I have
created and are not available anywhere. As Helen Hayes so aptly phrased
it on her radio broadcast, "they come to play at learning." And perhaps
you will join the children with milk and cookies which is served at the
close of each session.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
Haven
Wenn
Deni
Harold Weinstein, M. D.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 3, 1983
MEMORANDUM FOR WHITE HOUSE AND EOP STAFF
FROM:
MICHAEL K. DEAVER nuke
SUBJECT:
PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION.
During the launching of the Partnerships in Education
Initiative on October 13, the President announced that
the White House staff would lead by example by forming
a partnership with Congress Heights Elementary School
in Washington, D.C. I want to emphasize the seriousness
of this initiative and ask that each of you commit several
hours a week to assist the school and student body in
meeting special needs beyond the resources of the school.
Congress Heights is a predominatly black elementary
school with 518 students (pre-kindergarten through 6th
grade) and 28 teachers. It is located at 6th and Alabama
Avenue, S.E. They have a number of programs aimed at
improving basic education, including pilot writing and
reading programs involving the Washington Post and IBM.
As indicated in the attached material, there are a number
of ways you can get involved in the school, including:
- one-on-one tutoring
- serving as guest classroom speakers
- arranging White House or office tours
- donating equipment and books
- sponsoring special events
- developing and presenting awards for academic
achievement
- communicating with students
Jim Coyne will be meeting again with William Dalton, their
principal, to determine the school's most important needs.
In order that their needs can be matched with our resources,
please let Jim know by November 16 the areas of your interest
and your planned participation.
We are anxious to make this a quality and substantive
partnership. I am counting on your support.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of Private Sector Initiatives
For Immediate Release
October 13, 1983
The President launched the National Partnerships in Education
Program today in a White House ceremony, with 150 representatives
of business, schools, government and trade associations in
attendance. He commended the positive role the business
community has taken in improving the quality of education in
local communities, and issued a challenge "that everyone of our
country's public, private, and parochial schools and community
colleges -- all 110,000 of them -- will have formed partnerships
in education."
In addition to encouraging the private sector to participate in
this program to upgrade the quality of education, the President
directed the Federal Government to promote partnerships in
education in every way that it can. James K. Coyne, Special
Assistant to the President for Private Sector Initiatives and his
staff were directed to work on this program throughout the year.
In describing the Partnerships in Education program, the
President said, "Across the country, groups of working men and
women have been forming partnerships with schools -- partnerships
in education. To form a partnership, volunteers from a business,
government agency, or other organization strike an agreement with
a school to develop programs that will help the school's students
in a number of basic ways. The volunteers might tutor students,
establish scholarship funds, donate furniture and equipment, or
teach classes."
This program was transmitted by closed-circuit TV, through the
cooperation of WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., to the students,
teachers, and parents of Congress Heights Elementary School. In
a surprise announcement, the President informed Bill Dalton,
Principal of the school, that the White House was forging a
partnership with Congress Heights.
By Presidential Proclamation, the 1983-84 school year has beer
named "National Year of Partnerships in Education".
This program is another example of the President's continued
support for the private sector initiatives program and for the
high priority he has assigned to encouraging private sector
initiatives to solve social and economic problems throughout
America.
# # #
CONTACT: James K. Coyne, Special Assistant to the President
White House Office of Private Sector Initiatives
(202) 456-6676
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
October 3, 1983
NATIONAL YEAR OF PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION 1983-1984
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
America's future is dependent upon the health and
vitality of her education system. Although thousands of
businesses, industries, individuals, organizations, teachers,
administrators, and government at all levels have been
involved in the education of our youth, there is more work to
be done. More people must become active in improving the
quality of education in our Nation.
Recently, many schools have developed private sector
partnerships in an effort to broaden available resources and
reach out to their communities for support. The private
sector has much to offer the growing national movement to
improve our education system. Some of the most effective
methods include helping educators identify the learning needs
of our society; encouraging professional exchanges between
teachers, educators, and businesses; contributing expertise,
financial resources, and equipment; and providing technical
assistance in school administration and curriculum
development. In order to encourage this trend, I call upon
businesses, organizations, individuals, and agencies to become
involved with their local schools.
Partnerships in Education Year gives us the opportunity
to acknowledge the efforts of the private sector and to
encourage the creation of new partnerships in education all
across this Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim the period from
October 1, 1983, through June 30, 1984, as the National Year
of Partnerships in Education. I invite all Americans to join
me in my commitment to the excellence and quality of education
offered to all Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
third
day of October
, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and eighty-three, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and eighth.
RONALD REAGAN
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
WHITE HOUSE PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION PROGRAM
WITH CONGRESS HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Congress Heights Elementary School is located at 6th and
Alabama Avenues, SE, in Washington, D.C. There are 518
students in grades pre-K through 6th grade. Students in
grades K through 6th grade will participate in the program.
There are approximately 28 teachers in the school and
parents and community members are often called upon to
assist in the classroom.
Each White House staff member is expected to participate
in at least one element of the two-part core program
developed in conjunction with the school's principal,
Bill Dalton.
BASIC COMMITMENT - Please indicate your interest:
Element I
The Mentor Program - to be paired
with a student/classroom on an
individual basis
Element II
Resource Development (to be
assigned to a resource development
team
OPTION:
Both Elements I & II combined
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program - Partnerships will be developed
by undertaking each of the following:
Tutoring
Congress Heights needs tutors in all subject
areas: math, science, English, social studies,
foreign languages, current events, just to
name a few. Tutors in the past have worked
with the students an hour each week, either on
lunch hours, after school or on weekends.
Shadowing
This very special arrangement matches a student
with a person for a day The student spends
the entire day with the individual at work,
learning exactly how a business day operates,
what the individual does, and the mechanics
of the operation. This develops a good one-to-
one relationship which the student seldom receives.
2
Pen Pals
Correspondents are needed to write to
the students to help them develop their
writing skills. This is expected to
result in a regular exchange of letters
and information.
Counseling
Students often need "just someone to
talk to." Trips or meetings may be
arranged for students to have a chance
to talk about a problem or an issue.
ELEMENT II: Resource Development - Partnerships are needed
in the following areas:
Expertise
Speakers are needed for all classes and
clubs. Congress Heights has developed
a Science Club, a Red Cross Club, an
Art and Music Club, a Math Club, and
a Library Club. The opportunities
here are endless - whatever your
expertise - Congress Heights would
welcome a speaker to inform and educate
the students.
Computers
IBM and Digital Equipment Corporation
have donated computers to the school.
Assistants, technicans and programmers
are invited to work with the teachers
and students to develop new learning
techniques.
Assistants
Assistants are needed in the library
and the school office to help develop
the library system and maintain the
daily operation of the school.
Equipment and
Books, magazines, and records are
Supplies
accepted for the library as well as
the classroom. Almost any type of
equipment or supplies will be accepted
if functional.
Financial
Congress Heights is planning to establish
a "Send a Child to Camp" fund. All proceeds
will go towards sending the students to
Camp Round Meadow, a fully equipped camp
run by the National Park Service located
near Camp David. Students will have the
opportunity to attend camp for one week
in the Spring.
3
Landscaping and
The school welcomes assistance in
Beautification
'sprucing' up the place. The students
have a Garden Club and would
appreciate direction as well as
supplies.
Athletics
Individuals might offer their
expertise and time to organize and
coach a football game, basketball
game, etc. or spend time on physical
fitness in general. Again, a one-on-
one relationship is important.
Field Trips
Special events are created for the
students as a motivational tool.
Congress Heights would like to
organize more events for the students.
Supervisory and organizers are needed
for events such as: arrival ceremonies,
White House tours, holiday events,
technical tours of the complex,
Kennedy center programs and events,
NASA/Air and Space Museum, the Pentagon,
Air Traffic Control Center, and the
Weather Bureau.
This is only a basic outline. Beyond these two central
elements, we offer a wide range of additional student
and teacher-supported activities which we urge you to
explore with our staff.
The degree of participation is as creative as you make
it. Any special skills or interests not mentioned above
which you might offer to Congress Heights?
NAME
OFFICE
ADDRESS
PHONE NUMBER
Please indicate your preference:
A) Grade Level (K, 1,2,3,4,5,6)
No Preference
B) Particular subject area
(English, Math, Science
Arts, Music, Athletics,
Foreign Languages)
Other
No Preference
Specific interest, estimate of time available
Return to James K. Coyne, Private Sector Initiatives, Room 134,
OEOB.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 16, 1983
MEMORANDUM TO JAMES COYNE
FROM:
HOLLY STEWART
RE:
PiE/CONGRESS HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
We have had 24 responses to Mr. Deaver's memo on
Congress Heights. Because most people have indicated
that they want to do more than one project, I have
categorized each offer on the attached forms.
We've also received five telephone calls expressing
interest. Roger Porter's office would like to a
group project and will call me after their staff
meeting; Pat McKelvy in Carlton Turner's office is
forwarding the press packet on the drug awareness
comic book, which the Congress Heights 6th graders
attended; Julie in Mrs. Bush's office wants to
coordinate an assembly at which Mrs. Bush might
be present; and Linda Faulkner of the Social Office
wants to become involved after Christmas.
I have requested a meeting with Fred Ryan and Sarah
Long in Scheduling for 6:30 today or tommorrow
morning to discuss scheduling events with children,
especially around the holidays.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program
TUTORING
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Patty Hobbs/Counsel
tutoring-reading, history
evenings
5-6th grade
government
weekends
Betty Ayers/Policy
tutor-English, Math
lunch/w-ends
K, 1,2,3
Arts, French
evenings
Susan Borchard/P. Personnel
tutor-history
-
6th
work w/teacher
Terry Abdoo/Speechwriting
tutor-English
evenings
4th or 6th
weekends
Wendy Weber, Mrs. Reagan's
tutor-anything
AM-8:00-9:30
4,5,6th grades
Press Office
evenings
Priscilla Rowe/Personnel
tutor-English
weekends
K-3rd
Science
evenings
Julie Cave/Speechwriting
tutor-social studies
hour/week
4th, 5th, 6th
math, English
Cindy Herrick/Visitor's
tutor-anything
one day/week
K-3rd grade
Office
evenings
Sylvia Bosak/RR Gift Unit
tutor-individual
1-2 days/week
K-3rd grade
(would prefer to be paired
group/classroom
Wed.-Sat.
with someone for trans.)
Jude Muskett/Public
tutor-individua
Affairs
Kim Timmons/Speechwriting
tutor-Eng.Arts, For.
1 hr./wk.
Language
Dana Rohrabacher
tutor-Eng., History
2 hrs./wk.
4-6th grades
Speechwriting
Stephen Maringo
Special Letter Reply
tutor-History,Latin
----
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program
SPEAKERS
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Douglas Riggs/Public
classroom speaker
---
-----
Liaison
Betty Ayers/Policy Dev.
Classroom speaker
lunch,w-ends
K-3rd grade
Eng., Arts, French
evenings
Sue Mathias/Media
speaker-English
arrange in
5th and 6th
Relations
Speech
advance
Ralph Bledsoe/Policy
speaker-class or
2-3 hours/
4th,5th,6th
teachers-work out
week
programs
Karna Small/Media
speaker-Communications
6th grade
Relations
endy Weber/Mrs. Reagan's
speaker-general
A.M. 8:00-9:30 4th,5th,6th
Press Office
drug abuse
evenings
Sig Girgus/Interior Design
speaker-music/arts
lunchtime
K-3rd
drawing
weekends
Marie Allen/Nat'l Archives
speaker-slide show on
-----
--
RR Library/WH and OEOB
Judi Buchalew/Public
speaker-teach class
-------------------------
-------------------------
Liaison
Craig Fuller/Cabinet
speaker-teach class
--
4th,5th,6th
Affairs
Linda Faulkner/Social
speaker
after Christmas
-------------------------
Office
Fred Ryan/Scheduling
speaker
-----
address class
Jack Courtemanche
speaker
Public Liaison
Faith Whittlesey/Public
speaker
aison
Carolyn Sundseth
speaker
2 hours/week
Public Liaison
classroom or clubs
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program
SPEAKERS
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Stephen Maringo
speak to class; has
---
Special Letter Reply
taught History, Latin,
Greek
Mary Jo Jacobi
guest speaker
3 hrs./
I
month
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program
PEN PALS
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Berndt Schine/Personnel
pen pal
weekends
-
Sue Mathias/Media Relations
pen pal
-
5th & 6th
Karna Small/Media Relations
pen pal with one student
-
6th
Priscilla Rowe/Personnel
pen pal
weekends
K-3rd
evenings
Kathleen P. Utgoff/328
pen pal
--
|
Nancy Theis/Correspondence
group of 5 would like to
hold letter writing seminar
and develop pen pals/with
President. (They receive
4,000 letters/day from
children and answer)
Kim Timmons/Speechwriting
pen pal
1 hr./wk.
Dana Rohrabacher/Speechwriter pen pal
2 hrs./wk.
4-6 grade
Barb Gleason
pen pal
-
4-6th grades
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT I: The Mentor Program
SHADOWING
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Berndt Schine/Personnel
one-on-one
weekends
Susan Borchard/Personnel
one-on-one with student
I
6th
or teacher (History)
Sue Mathias/Media Relations
one-on-one-general
-
5th and 6th
Ralph Bledsoe/Policy Dev.
one-on-one with
2-3 hrs.
4th,5th,6th
class/teacher to
week
develop talks, programs
Judi Buchalew/Public Liaison
one-on-one with
I
-
students
Kim Timmons/Speechwriting
one-on-one
1 hour/wk.
Dana Rohrabacher/Speechwriting one-on-one
2 hrs./wk.
4-6th grades.
lunch/after
school
Linda Faulkner
one-on-one
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: Resource Development
FIELD TRIPS
NAME/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Bob Tuttle/Personnel
Tour of WH followed by
lunch in WH Mess. Also
weekends
tours of Washington, DC
Douglas Riggs/Public WH or office tours
Liaison
Craig Fuller
WH tour/visit by
Cabinet Affairs
students/visit cabinet
agencies/NASA
Marie Allen
Tours of National
Nat'l Archives
Archives buildings w/slide
show
Jan Elston
Offer to provide events;
Advance Office
tie children into WH events
Carolyn Sundseth
assist on field trips
Public Liaison
Douglas Riggs
WH or office tours
anytime
any
Public Liaison
Linda Watson
escort for field trips
anytime
Mail Analysis
K-3rd grade
Sharon Lewis
Correspondence analysis escort for field
anytime
K-3rd grade
trips
Audrey Berenato
escort for field
anytime
K-3rd grade
Correspondence
trips
Analysis
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
FINANCIAL
NAME/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Kathleen P. Utgoff
Financial
Jane Lankering
Financial
(Library) x.7000
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
ENTERTAINMENT
NAME/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Maureen Zatarga
entertainment - a member evenings
---
Personnel
of Sugarfoot Cloggers,
or weekends
Irish folkdancers.
Willing to put on
performance, at assembly
or school function.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
COMPUTERS
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Eric Larson/NSC
general computers,
1-2 hrs.
all
programming, "how to think week
computer," as well as
helping the school design
study programs.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES
PERSON AVAILABLE/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Kathleen P. Utgoff
general equipt/supplies
Michael P. Castine
donated VCR machine
---
all
Private Sector Initiatives
Working on satellite
dish; photography equipt.
Book donations for
library
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ELEMENT II: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
ATHLETICS
NAME/DEPT.
OFFER OF ASSISTANCE
TIME
GRADE
Berndt Schine
any type of athletic
weekends
---
assistance
Susan Borchard
former teacher -
:
6th
offers assistance
Jude Muskett
anything-one-on-one
---
---
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1983
The Washington Times
AP
President Reagan shakes hands yesterday with William Dalton, principal of Congress Heights Elementary School in Washington,
during a White House ceremony to lauch a national program of "Partnerships in Education" to increase the role of business and
other organizations in local communities to improve the quality of American education. James Coyne (center), the president's
special assistant for Private Sector Initiatives, looks on and applauds.
Reagan 'adopts' black school
From combined dispatches
circuit television. Reagan said they had
including San Diego, where the U.S.
President Reagan yesterday
been told the school was being adopted
Navy has ties to the local schools.
"adopted" a black elementary school in
by a local television station, WJLA-TV.
But he added, "There is much more
Washington to dramatize the start of a
But he told Principal William B. Dalton,
to be done. Everyone must get involved.
national "Partnerships in Education"
"With your permission, it's the White
So I'm directing the federal government
program. He urged other top govern-
House which would like to form a part-
to promote 'Partnerships in Education'
ment officials to establish ties with local
nership with your school.
in every way that it can."
schools throughout the United States.
"We'd like to pitch in at Congress
Reagan said he would sign a memo
"I'm issuing a challenge to America
Heights, tutoring, showing students
asking all federal department and
to ensure our children get the education
how the White House works, helping
agency heads to form "their own part-
they deserve," he told 150 business and
them further develop their academic
nership with local schools."
education leaders gathered in the East
skills and talking to them about our jobs
"This won't be an expensive new gov-
Room of the White House. "Let us re-
here and the careers that we had before
ernment program. It will be human and
solve that every one of our country's
we came here," the president said.
effective," he said.
public, private and parochial schools
"By the way, if there's anybody inter-
Reagan said he was lending his ad-
and community colleges - all 110,000
ested in lifeguarding, sports an-
ministration's support to the school-
of them - will have formed a partner-
nouncing on radio or movie acting, I'd
business partnership program as an
ship in education."
be happy to help, too," he added with a
outgrowth of the concern expressed in
Reagan called the principal of Con-
laugh.
the National Commission on Excellence
gress Heights Elementary School in
The ceremony marked the official
in Education's report on the erosion of
Washington to the podium to announce
launch of the program, supported by
standards in U.S. schools.
that the White House was adopting his
dozens of major corporations and all
The White House said that Congress
school.
three major television networks.
Heights has 520 students in pre-
Students at Congress Heights were
Reagan said that adopt-a-school pro-
kindergarten through sixth grade with
viewing the ceremony over closed-
grams already exist in many cities,
28 teachers.
THE WASHINGTON POST, Saturday, October 15, 1983
Reagans Greet
Visiting Students
President and Mrs. Reugan greet some
of the 60 fifth and sixth grade students
from Congress Heights Elementary
School who visited the White House
yesterday. The public school, in one of
the poorest sections of Southeast Wash-
ington, has been adopted by the White
House as part of il new "Partnerships in
Education" program. The White House
staff will be expected to do volunteer
work at the school.
By Ray Lustig - The Washington Post
The Washington Post
METRO
Friday, October 14, 1983
By Ray Lustig The Washington Post
William B. Dalton, the principal of Congress Heights School, listens to President Reagan's announcement.
White House 'Adopts' School
Help for Congress Heights Launches National Drive
By Ronald D. White
eral departments and agencies will be direc-
Washington Post Staff Writer
ted to form partnerships with schools, and
The White House is "adopting" Congress
that the Department of Education will hold
Heights Elementary School, a public school
seminars around the country at which busi-
the
of the poorest sections of Southeast
ness leaders will be encouraged to become
Washington, to open a nationwide drive to
more involved in their community's schools.
promote private sector involvement in edu-
Congress Heights' principal. William B.
cation, President Reagan announced yester-
Dalton. was in the East Room's audience
day.
when Reagan made the announcement.
The announcement came as Reagan told a
The president called Dalton to the podi-
gathering of business executives and educa-
um and said: "I have a surprise for you
tors in the East Room of the White House
with your permission, it's the White House
about a new "Partnerships in Education"
that would like to form a partnership with
program aimed at increasing private and fed-
your school."
eral involvement in public schools around
"We'd like to pitch in at Congress Heights.
the country.
tutoring, showing students how the White
He said that the heads of the various fed-
See SCHOOL, B9, Col. 1
White House 'Adopts' Elementary School
in Southeast D.C.
SCHOOL, From B1
this. Everyone agreed that this will become a
House works, helping them further develop
priority. The president really thinks we have
academic skills," Reagan continued, in a state-
an important job ahead of us."
ment that was broadcast live on closed-circuit
There are no immediate plans for Reagan to
television at the school.
visit the school.
"And by the way, if there's anybody inter-
Congress Heights, located at Sixth Street
ested in life-guarding, sports announcing on
and Alabama Avenue in Southeast Washing-
radio or movie acting, I'd be happy to help,
ton, has approximately 550 students, many of
too," he added.
them from single-parent families on public as-
Former congressman Jim Coyne, who directs
sistance.
the White House's office of private sector ini-
Coyne said that there was no search to pick
tiatives, said that he will contact Dalton. to
a school and that Congress Heights was chosen
draw up a "needs evaluation" on the best ways
after he became "enamored" with the teachers
to assist the school, and that the potential help
and students during a vist to the school in
would consist of volunteer work, not additional
June to see its "writing-to-read program," an
federal spending.
effort sponsored by IBM to teach kindergarten
"We will not have a budget to give/money,"
and first-grade students how to read.
Coyne said. "There is no federal spending that
Congress Heights-and school system officials
IS proposed to be part of this, but it is certainly
expressed surprise and pleasure when told of
federal involvement."
the adoption plan.
Asked who would be volunteering, Coyne
"It's a surprise to all of us," said Lourene A.
said: "The White House staff will be doing
Browne, a counselor at the school for 17 years.
"I think he picked the right area. We are usu-
"It's quite exciting. I think he [Reagan] is try-
ally forgotten. I assume there will be money
ing to mend his ways. It's commendable that
appropriated for us. If they don't appropriate
he is trying to do so."
Calvin Rolark, a prominent Ward 8 resident
money it is [still] a nice gesture."
who is chairman of the United Black Fund,
"Are you pulling my leg?" asked at-large
school board member Eugene Kinlow. "I can
also thought the idea was "excellent," and said,
only guess that the quality and the state of
"For years Southeast has been known as the
education is going to be a national agenda item
forgotten section of D.C."
in the [upcoming] campaign
This may, in
Both he and Ward 8 City Council member
fact, be part of the whole campaign strategy of
Wilhemina Rolark plan to send telegrams to
outselling the Democrats on the educational
Reagan thanking him for the gesture.
Having a business or group enter a school to
issue."
Coyne denied that there was any intention
help students is not new in District schools,
and has been encouraged by School Superin-
of gaining political mileage from the program,
declaring: "This is an effort that will bring to-
tendent Floretta D. McKenzie.
gether all Americans in a nonpartisan way."
Several firms have donated equipment and
"I think it's fantastic
for the simple rea-
materials for programs such as the school sys-
son that it shows that the president and the
tem's career schools in engineering and com-
school system can work together for the bet-
puter processing.
terment of education," said physical education
Several churches also have adopted individ-
ual schools, providing their students with tu-
teacher Ruby Martin.
First-grade teacher Brenda Williams added:
torial help.
4A . FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1983 USA TODAY
WASHINGTON
USA TODAY'S SPECIAL REPORTS FROM THE CAPITAL
Department heads urged to adopt a school
President Reagan said Thursday he is ordering the
heads of all federal departments to "adopt" local schools as
part of a drive across the USA to bring closer ties between
business and education. To set an example, Reagan said the
White House was adopting Congress Heights Elementary
School, a predominantly black school in a low-income
neighborhood of the nation's capital. The students will be
tutored and shown how the White House operates.
17592
Dear Mr. President,
J.
V go to Congress Heights
Elementary School, and l
think It was a great
Idea to adopt' our school
to start a partinership in
education. l was one of
the 5th and 6th graders who
was there on Friday to see
you off to Camp David. l
considered it a great
privilege to be able to be at
the White House. also,
T he partenership in ectucation
idea will be a success.
l hope you enjoyed your try
to Camp David
(Continued on backs
Sincerely Todd Myers
President of Togo Visits SE School
VISIT, From C1
of its people younger than 25 are
"It's been a tremendous lift to the
a sixth grade student, said with a
literate. Eyadema said his country's
children," said School Superinten-
giggle. "I've only been as far away as
emphasis on better education was
dent Floretta D. McKenzie.
North Carolina."
one of the reasons he wanted to visit
The students, many of whom
These are heady days at Congress
Congress Heights.
come from poor, single-parent
Heights, a school in one of Washing-
"In Togo, we too prepare for the
homes, talked mostly about how nice
ton's poorest neighborhoods. Less
future of the children because they
it was to see a black head of state.
than two weeks ago, President Rea-
will be the ones to take our place,"
"He sounds like a good president.
gan announced that the White
Eyadema said. "If you waste your
This is my first time seeing a black
House was adopting the school to
time in school you cannot get it
president," said Lisa Nipper, 11.
kick off a "Partnership in Educa-
back."
"I like it," student Michael Poin-
tion" program, and invited students
Frances Pearson's and Ernestine
dexter said of all the unexpected at-
over for a visit.
Walker's sixth grade classrooms were
tention Congress Heights is receiving.
Nowadays, Principal William B.
festooned with miniature flags of
Dalton said, "Every time I look,
Togo and the United States and the
"It's great. It makes me feel happy."
there's someone coming."
children were. prepared with ques-
Yesterday Eyadema decided to
tions such as "What do you think of
take part in that program by going
our foods?"
to Congress Heights and offering the
"When you see children of a great
staff at the Togolese Embassy for
country you see that they are well
tutoring in French, African history
fed," Eyadema told the students.
and contemporary African politics.
"You are not like children of an un-
Togo is a tiny West African na-
derdeveloped country like ours."
tion of about 2.5 million residents
Ward 8 leaders such as City
that is smaller in area than West
Council member Wilhemina J.
Virginia. Eyadema is its popular,
Rolark and school board members R.
pro-western ruler who led a military
Calvin Lockridge and Eugene Kin-
coup in 1963. He handed the coun-
low seemed as enthusiastic as the
try over to civilian leaders and then
students.
toppled that government and in-
"It's an opportunity for our stu-
stalled himself in 1967. This is his
dents to touch their roots," Lock-
first visit to the United States.
ridge said.
Togo spends 25 percent of its
"This is excellent. This is wonder-
budget on education, and 70 percent
ful," Rolark said.