Edison Schools Announces Two Major R&D; Initiatives: Teacher Colleges and Whole-District Partnerships Edison Schools announced that it has appointed two of its most senior executives to head R&D; efforts which will yield important new lines of business. First, the company plans to explore the opening of Edison Teacher Colleges on multiple campuses around the United States and/or online. Deborah McGriff, former superintendent of the Detroit Public Schools and a major contributor to Edison's growth, leading charter school development nationally and contract development in the Midwest, has been named President of Edison Teacher Colleges. Edison hopes to open its first operations no later than Fall 2003, with the possibility of a prototype by Fall 2002. Second, Edison will investigate ways that small school districts could adopt the Edison platform and systems for the entire district. Kathy Hamel, who has led Edison's efforts in the Western States—including the company's largest contract with the Dallas Public Schools—has been named Executive Vice President, Whole-District Partnerships. Edison hopes to open its first whole-district programs no later than Fall 2003, and perhaps as early as Fall 2002. This news item shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. Back to News...