- CHICAGO: Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on Friday announced a $100 million donation to Newark public schools in a move that could enhance his reputation just before the opening on an unflattering movie about him, "The Social Network."
Zuckerberg told Oprah Winfrey that he picked Newark for the gift "because I believe in these guys." "These guys" are Republican New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Newark Mayor Cory Booker, a Democrat. All three appeared with Zuckerberg on a live episode Friday of Winfrey's TV show. The Newark district has been plagued for years by low test scores, poor graduation rates and crumbling buildings. It was taken over by the state in 1995 after instances of waste and mismanagement. Zuckerberg, wearing a gray T-shirt, black jacket and tennis shoes, explained to Winfrey why he chose to make his philanthropic debut in education. "Why education? Because every child deserves a good education and right now that's not happening," Zuckerberg said, adding he wants other children to have the same opportunities he had. Zuckerberg said his gift is a challenge grant. Booker said he is lining up money from other foundations, too.

