The $4.35 billion dollar discretionary fund-- remember, that is $100 million dollars multiplied approximately 40 times-- for education has been expounded upon by the Department of Education. "We are unveiling today ... a challenge to states and districts. We're looking to drive reform, reward excellence and dramatically improve our nation's schools," announced Secretary Duncan.
The judging criteria for funding allocation to states are the four pillars to which Duncan often refers when speaking of education reform:
- Adopting internationally benchmarked standards and assessments that prepare students for success beyond K-12;
- Recruiting, developing, rewarding, and retaining effective teachers and principals;
- Building data systems that measure student success and inform teachers and principals how they can improve their practices; and
- Turning around the lowest-performing schools.
Says President Obama of the unprecedented program, "This competition will not be based on politics, ideology, or the preferences of a particular interest group. Instead, it will be based on a simple principle − whether a state is ready to do what works. We will use the best data available to determine whether a state can meet a few key benchmarks for reform and states that outperform the rest will be rewarded with a grant. Not every state will win and not every school district will be happy with the results. But America's children, America's economy, and America itself will be better for it."
The multi-billion dollar fund augments the already $46 billion that has been allocated for education spending in the FY 2010 Department of Education budget.
To review the details of the "Race to the Top" program, please click on the following link: http://www.edgovblogs.org/duncan/2009/07/president-obama-secretary-duncan-announce-race-to-the-top/.
*This federal report was brought to you in conjunction with KEYTA’s national partner, the Association of American Educators.
