U.S. Department of Education Employs 158 College and Graduate Students in Summer Internships
Archived Information


FOR RELEASE:
July 30, 2009
Contact: John White,
Press Secretary
(202) 401-1576 or
john.white@ed.gov

More than 150 college and graduate students have answered President Obama's call to service while interning at the U.S. Department of Education this summer. The 158 interns are from 93 different colleges and universities and are working in 21 different offices throughout the Education Department.

"Having vibrant college and graduate students interning at the department over the summer is invaluable. They bring innovative ideas along with the enthusiasm and vigor that college and graduate school fosters," U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. "They are our next generation of educators and leaders. We are proud to have them here and we encourage others to serve."

"United We Serve" is a summer service initiative running from June 22 to September 11, focusing on promoting service in communities across America. In response to the president's call to service, the U.S. Department of Education implemented its "Read to the Top" program.

Throughout the summer, Secretary Duncan has been hosting cabinet secretaries and White House officials in weekly sessions in front of the Education Department building, reading to children, both to encourage summer reading and to help curb summer reading loss. Interns have been instrumental to the success of this program, developing, implementing and improving the program week after week.

Interns have also helped organize other service initiatives aimed at reducing summer reading loss. Along with Education Department staff, interns are visiting recreation centers, Boys and Girls Clubs and public libraries, reading to and tutoring a mix of children ranging from 5-year-olds to preteens. Regardless of the age of the child, the goal is the same: to maintain or improve their reading skills before they return to school.

The interns are not only learning how the federal government runs, but also helping improve the efficiency of their offices and actively participating in this historic opportunity to advance the quality of education for every student.

For service opportunities visit Serve.gov or for those interested in an internship with the Department of Education visit ed.gov.

Interns and School Attending

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Last Modified: 07/31/2009