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TonyC's Blog - What you can do to help with Race to the Top
What you can do to help with Race to the Top
By:
TonyC
On:
12/24/2009 8:52 AM
Posted To: Race to the Top
Florida has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to participate in a federal education grant program – Race to the Top – which could generate up to $700 million for local school districts in Florida. For months, the Florida Department of Education has worked with education and business leaders, experts and stakeholders to design an ambitious, yet achievable plan which has two clear purposes: to help Florida students, teachers, and principals improve their performance; and to reward that improvement.
Because of our commitment to education reform and innovation, Florida has a chance to receive a significant portion of this competitive grant but local superintendents, school boards, and education organizations must show their support for Florida to receive grants. We urge you to encourage them to let these leaders know that you want your local schools to be included in the grant application.
On January 6 & 7, the Florida Chamber and the Florida Economic Development Council will co-host statewide conference calls to provide background and marching orders to the business community. We have the opportunity to make a difference in whether or not Florida gets this grant and this is an opportunity that can't be squandered. To participate on one of the calls, email me at tcarvajal@flchamber.com.
In the meantime, here are some resources that might be of interest:
What Race to the top means for teachers, parents & businesses
Key Dates:
- January 6 (2pm) and January 7 (9:30) – Statewide calls with business, economic development and community leaders
- January 7 – Business partners can submit letters of support to FDOE
- January 12 – Districts must return signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
- January 19 – State application due for US DOE for phase 1 funding
- April – Winners of phase 1 grant announced