Mark Zuckerberg discusses Newark’s school reform efforts with Mayor Cory Booker, Gov. Chris Christie

Almost a year after announcing he was donating a $100 million to Newark Public Schools, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg met with Cory Booker and Governor Chris Christie in Idaho to discuss Newark’s school reform efforts.

The annual Sun Valley conference draws the world’s most influential executives and media personalities. Last year, Booker and Zuckerberg met at this conference which started the conversation that sparked the gift of 100 million dollar to reform Newark’s schools.

“We sat down, had lunch and just gave him a quick update on the progress,” Booker said by phone tonight. “He had read articles about (Newark schools Superintendent) Cami Anderson, and he was very pleased with the progress we were making. He was excited that we are moving the ball forward.”

The conference drew the likes of Bill Gates and Oprah Winfrey, on whose show where the announcement of the $100 million donation was made.

City leaders thus far have been able to raise $44 million to match Zuckerberg’s gift. Some funds have already been spent on community outreach programs.

The effort to reform Newark’s school will begin in the Fall.