Newark schools officials announce funds for school supplies

NEWARK, N.J. -- A foundation created to allocate the $100 million Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg donated to improve education in Newark has made a conciliatory move by awarding money to the school district's teachers for school supplies.

The Foundation for Newark's Future and schools superintendent Christopher Cerf announced the plans Wednesday, a day before classes begin.

Principals at the city's 60 district schools are also receiving $7,500 for teacher training, field trips or other needs.

The announcement is a contrast to a start of school last year marked by protest of the district administration.

Cerf is a former state education commissioner who was appointed over the summer to replace Cami Anderson, a superintendent often criticized for not engaging with the community.

He is also charged with getting the district out of state control.