The occasion was the launching of a TV advertising campaign to enlist the public and parents in raising academic standards for students. The ads feature Major League baseball players. Viewers are urged to use an 800 number to get a copy of a brochure that tells why higher academic standards are needed and gives examples of high standards.

Participating in the ceremony with the President and education officials were leaders of the Education Excellence Partnership, a coalition of public officials and business and teacher organizations formed in 1992. The ads also are part of a 10-year campaign by the Advertising Council to focuse its resources on developing campaigns that improve the circumstances of children.