On This Page Key staff Components Activities

Mission

OIIA encourages public understanding and support for improving American education. We engage key groups and constituencies including government, business, religious and community organizations, as well as families, students and the general public.

Key Staff

• Christina Culver, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Services

• John McGrath, Senior Director, Community Services, Partnerships, and Recognition Programs

• Ken Meyer, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs, Constituent Relations and Corporate Liaison

Components

• Secretary's Regional Representatives (Regional Services)
• Intergovernmental Affairs
• Interagency Affairs
• Constituent Relations
• Corporate Liaison
• Community Services
• Recognition Programs
• Educational Partnerships and Family Involvement
• The Information Resource Center (1-800-USA-LEARN)

Activities

OIIA works to...

• Develop messages: OIIA clarifies and shapes the key Departmental messages for the general public and key constituency groups. From policy to publications, OIIA actively distributes ED's message so information is accessible to all groups who can receive the most benefit.

• Engage key stakeholders: OIIA reaches key audiences by developing and using established relationships. OIIA regularly engages specific sectors including: state and local elected officials, the business community, education associations, and other federal agencies.

• Support communities: OIIA and the Secretary's Regional Representatives support community efforts to improve schools by providing information, convening forums, coordinating visits from high-level officials, conducting workshops, and connecting resources.

• Highlight priorities: OIIA operates as a rapid-response team to deliver the Secretary's and President's message on urgent issues. Staff coordinates conference calls, teleconferences, downlinks, telephone campaigns, mail-outs, and other efforts to support important initiatives in a timely manner.

• Assemble key groups: OIIA coordinates major special events bringing together key groups.

• Recognize achievement: OIIA recognizes outstanding student achievement with the Presidential Scholars program and the Presidential Education Awards Program. Teachers and schools are recognized in programs such as the NCLB-Blue Ribbon Schools program.