American Black Journal sat down with Detroit Public School's superintendent Dr. John Telford, school board president Lamar Lemons and emergency financial manager Roy Roberts to talk about DPS's rising graduation rates, enrollment and the quality of the education and safety of students.

The NewsHour American Graduate team reports on a city-wide effort to keep students engaged in the classroom and on the path to graduation.

Juliette Okotie-Eboh, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for MGM Grand Detroit, explains their outreach programs which are creating a positive impact in the community and support students.

Denise Smith, Vice President of Early Childhood at Excellent Schools Detroit, speaks to the important of early child development and education to create a lifetime learner.

Penny Bailer, Executive Director of City Year Inc, Detroit, speaks to the success of near-to-peer mentors who are helping at-risk students stay on track to earn their diplomas.

Rob Otto, Program Facilitator of Winning Futures, discusses the efforts to encourage graduation and the life skills necessary to become successful professionals.

Dr. Shaun Nethercott, Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Matrix Theatre Company, discusses the importance of music and the arts in providing a well-rounded education for students.

Yolanda Eddins, Director of Parent Development and Training of Detroit Parent Network, discusses the importance of supporting parents.

FRONTLINE'S Poor Kids is an intimate portrait of the economic crisis as it's rarely seen - through the eyes of children.