SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell announced today the appointment of Dr. Terence McAteer of Grass Valley to the California Academic Partnership Program (CAPP) Advisory Committee.

"Dr. McAteer will make an excellent addition to this important committee," said O'Connell. "His dedication to education, distinguished career, and community service, are all assets that will help improve the quality of education in California."

Dr. McAteer brings nine years of experience as the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools to the CAPP Advisory Committee. The award-winning educator also has extensive experience in charter schools. He holds multiple degrees in history, journalism, and education from the University of San Francisco, U.C. Berkeley, and San Francisco State University. Prior to serving as Superintendent, he was employed with Nevada County in various public service capacities. Dr. McAteer also volunteers his time with several nonprofit organizations dedicated to domestic violence, or children's services, as well as other charities.

"I'm honored to be chosen to work with the CAPP Advisory Committee," said McAteer. "I'm looking forward to helping ensure every child from a disadvantaged background gets the same chance at a quality education as other economically stable students."

CAPP, established by the California Legislature in 1984, is a partnership between higher education institutions and public schools in the state. CAPP awards grants to partnerships between schools, higher education institutions, and business entities to improve academic programs so that more students are prepared for college. The CAPP Advisory Committee is made up of 12 appointed members who represent California's educational segments. Dr. McAteer qualifies as a secondary school employee with curriculum administration responsibilities.

Since its inception, more than 100 partnerships, involving approximately 170 institutions, and 3,000 higher education facilities receiving CAPP support have improved the quality and effectiveness of K-12 instruction. More than 200,000 students K-12 students are beneficiaries of curriculum and teaching strategies developed in CAPP supported partnerships. More of these students are enrolled in college preparatory classes compared to students statewide. Their performance on standardized tests has increased over the course of CAPP funding. The activities of the CAPP partnerships also have played an important role in the reduction of dropout rates for these students, and positively impacted attitudes and self-esteem regarding higher education. For more information, please visit http://www.calstate.edu/CAPP/ (Outside Source).