Scholastic isn’t the only one celebrating 90 years. This week marks the 90^th anniversary of American Education Week. Dating back to 1921 the National Education Association  designated one week a year to ignite a sense of urgency around education after 25 percent of World War I draftees were declared illiterate.

We need to reignite that sense of urgency again today. According to an article in the Huffington Post, children are reading less than seven minutes every day. In efforts to promote reading, Scholastic launched the “Read Every Day Lead A Better Life” campaign. Through the campaign Scholastic is asking EVERYONE to work together to bring reading and deeper understanding to all children around the globe. Scholastic strongly believes that the ability to read is a door opener to the 21^st century.

Last year during American Education Week President Obama reaffirmed the importance of education with his Presidential Proclamation . The Presidential Proclamation begins with this powerful line; ‘Education is essential to our success as both people and a Nation’ shows the important role of community support and valuing education.

NEA is suggesting several ways people can get involved during American Education Week, which kicked off today. Here are opportunities to join the celebration of education:

● Monday, November14: Kick-Off Day

● Tuesday, November 15: Parents Day

● Wednesday, November 16: Education Support Professional Day

● Thursday, November 17: Educator for a Day

● Friday, November 18: Substitute Educators Day

How will you celebrate American Education Week?