Education Week, American, acquaints the public with the work of education, and with its problems, achievements, and needs. The chief sponsors of American Education Week include the American Legion, the National Education Association, the National Congress of Parents and Teachers (more commonly known as the National Parent Teacher Association or National PTA), and the United States Department of Education. Education Week, first observed in 1921, is now held each year in the fall.
A typical American Education Week program opens with proclamations from state governors and mayors. These proclamations stress the importance of education. The rest of the week includes such activities as open house programs, special television programs, and exhibits in businesses, schools, and libraries.
Each year, the sponsoring organizations select a theme for American Education Week. Themes have included Better Education—Your Job; America Has a Good Thing Going—Its Schools; and Invest in Learning.
