FIRST OFF . . .

The nation’s largest cable broadcasting networks--including Cable News Network, Home Box Office and Showtime--are joining forces to bring commercial-free programming to schools around the country. The new Cable Alliance for Education will encourage partnerships between local system operators and educators to match the resources of cable TV with the needs of schools. Cable operators would be asked to conduct surveys to determine what television equipment schools need and what programs would work with their curricula. The group wants to make relevant programs, from news and documentaries to dramatic presentations, available to schools. Spokesmen said the programs will be provided by 22 multiple-system operators, serving 60% of the cable-TV audience, and 16 national cable-programming networks. The move by the cable companies follows previously announced plans by Whittle Communications LP of Knoxville, Tenn., to launch Channel One, an educational network that includes commercials geared toward youngsters. Channel One is scheduled to be up and running by the beginning of next year. Turner Broadcasting System Inc. already has on the air CNN Newsroom, a special commercial-free program designed to teach students about world events.