Newark to launch $100M school makeover with 'relentless outreach' campaign, to ask residents for ideas
Published: Tuesday, November 02, 2010, 9:00 AM
Newark Mayor Cory Booker speaks to reporters to announce the Partnership for Education in Newark called "PENewark" during a press conference at a former furniture store, located on Market Street in Newark on Monday.NEWARK — Newark will soon launch its $100 million school makeover with a citywide campaign of "relentless outreach," to tap into the ideas of residents on turning around the city’s troubled schools.
The program announced Monday stems from the $100 million pledged for school reform by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, and will have a citywide reach, using phone banks, door-to-door canvassers and neighborhood meetings.
It is the first concrete step as Newark plans to begin spending the donated money. PENewark, or Partnership for Education in Newark, was formally kicked off Monday by city leaders, including Mayor Cory Booker and School Superintendent Clifford Janey.
"We want every Newarker’s input in every step of this process," Booker said Monday at a press conference held to announce foundation of PENewark, which was described as the "primary organizing force" for the school