PHOTOS: U.S. Deputy Secretary of Ed Visits Princeton Schools

PRINCETON, NJ — U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education, Cindy Marten, visited Princeton Public Schools on Tuesday morning. Marten's visit is part of the Biden administration's "ARPStars" tour, to highlight how schools are using the American Rescue Plan (ARP) investments.

Princeton Public Schools was among several school districts across the nation to receive federal funding during the pandemic through the American Rescue Plan.

On Tuesday, Marten and her team witnessed PPS programs funded by the ARP and spoke with teachers and administrators on how the district is using the funds. She was joined by Jordan Schiff, Assistant Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education.

"It was a pleasure to welcome both Cindy Marten and Jordan Schiff to our district," said Carol Kelley, Superintendent of Schools. "We are very proud of what our staff has accomplished. In addition, I would like to thank Valerie Ulrich, PPS Supervisor of Preschool and Special Projects, for her leadership in leveraging this funding to support our equity and inclusion efforts."

Marten visited the science class at Princeton High School taught by James Smirk, which is supported by ARP. She also visited the PHS studio band and spoke about the challenges and successes of arts continuation during the pandemic.

At Johnson Park Elementary School, Marten visited two early childhood classrooms where funds from the American Rescue Plan support transitions for students as well as a co-teaching classroom. Co-teaching involves pairing general education and special education teachers to create an inclusive environment for all students.

After her tour, Marten sat down with teachers and administrators to discuss in detail how the American Rescue Plan funds have impacted Princeton Public Schools.

President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan a year ago, which included $130 billion to support recovery efforts at K-12 schools.

Marten served as the superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District since 2013, before being confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the Deputy Secretary in May last year. She has been an educator for 32 years and held various roles including teacher, literacy specialist, vice principal, and principal.

The Deputy Secretary is scheduled to visit Newark schools on Wednesday.

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