NEWARK, N.J., Sept. 24 (UPI) -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Newark Mayor Cory A. Booker have joined forces with Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg to improve public education in Newark.
The trio appeared on Friday's edition of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" to announce the formation of the Partnership for Education in Newark, a commitment to a bipartisan initiative to ensure every school-aged child in Newark has access to a high-quality education as preparation for a successful future and a better quality of life.
The governor said he has authorized Booker to work with the local community to develop and implement a comprehensive education plan for the future of the Newark Public School District, based on clear standards and metrics that reward excellence in teaching, school leadership and student achievement. The plan is to be carried out under the mayor's leadership during the next few years.
To support these efforts, Zuckerberg announced the creation of the foundation Startup: Education, with an initial gift of $100 million to improve educational opportunities for young people.
UPI
