WXXI’S ASSIGNMENT: THE WORLD RETURNS FROM SUMMER VACATION WITH EXPANDED INTERNET SERVICES

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kristin Tutino, (585) 258-0253

WXXI’S ASSIGNMENT: THE WORLD RETURNS FROM SUMMER VACATION WITH EXPANDED INTERNET SERVICES

Rochester, NY (August 23, 2006) – Assignment: The World (ATW), the nation's longest-running classroom program, launches its 48th season on Thursday, September 14 at 6 a.m. on WXXI-TV 21 (cable 11), and on public television stations across the county. Produced by WXXI Public Broadcasting in conjunction with The Associated Press, the program delivers news and current events in a safe environment for students in grades 4-8. ATW is a fast-paced, interactive program that helps young viewers understand the world around them and understand how events in other countries can and do effect their lives. Instant pop quizzes, clues in the news and issue questions offer interactive opportunities for students to test their comprehension, improve their research skills and practice writing exercises.

ATW host Teej Jenkins returns to the set for the new season while ATW’s Web site delivers new program streaming and download features. For fall 2006 www.atwonline.org will archive all programs for the year, offering segments for streaming and full-length programs for downloading. Both are viewable in Windows Media format. For information about logins and passwords, teachers should contact the education department at their local PBS station. For licensing information, contact Joann Flick at AIT, jflick@ait.net or 800 457-4509 ext. 206.

ATW is used in classrooms in 15 states and is broadcast on more than 90 public television stations. The series has received numerous awards including a 2006 Telly, 2005 Gold Aurora and a 2000 Wilbur Schramm Award of Excellence. It is distributed nationally by the Agency for Instructional Technology in Bloomington, IN (www.ait.net).

Assignment: The World airs on WXXI-TV 21 (cable 11) Thursdays and Fridays at 6 a.m. throughout the school year.

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WXXI is the essential, life-long educational media resource for the Greater Rochester area. WXXI puts the community first with programming that stimulates and expands thought, inspires the spirit, opens cultural horizons and promotes understanding of diverse community issues. Log on to wxxi.org for more information about our services and programs.

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