With any national press, there needs to be a hook. Remember journalists have to meet the needs of their audience. So asking would a reader of x media outlet be interested in this? Being ultra-specific in the news outlets approached with the proper pitch is paramount.
What is the story? Why $1M to schools? Is the $1M to particular schools/districts? Why these schools over others? Contacting Arnie Duncan/his staff won't get you much, other than frustration. I would suggest you possibly partner with schools and see if you can leverage any media relationships. Have they reached out to Education Week or any of the Mobile publications? How about second tier journalists and bloggers? Perhaps reach out to organizations like Edutopia, or those involved in EdTech?
Lots of things to ponder. The first step is to definitely create a plan. Will make it easier to execute and meet goals.