September has been declared Education Month in San Diego, California , as part of the city's Millennium Year Celebration. Through San Diego Goes Back to School , parents and community members districtwide were invited to join students and schools in kicking off the 2000-2001 school year in a positive way. Employers were strongly encouraged to allow working parents time off to participate-a request made possible under the California Family School Partnership Act. To inform employers of the event and facilitate parent requests, San Diego schools provided custom designed Employee Time Off Request forms. In Washington, DC , Teachers' Night at the Smithsonian is open to educators and other community members.
Visitors learn about the resources available for students at museums and cultural organizations.
Nearly 40 museums and organizations participate in meeting and honoring local educators at the event. Each year, students write letters to invite their grandparents and other adults to spend the day at school. Classes participate on different days so the school doesn't get too crowded. Guests participate in classroom activities, eat lunch with the children, and are honored and entertained at a special assembly. Local political and civic leaders are also invited.