There is a nationwide footrace underway for more than $4 billion in federal education funding. Just a few weeks ago, California appeared to be out of the running. But fortunately, lawmakers have the opportunity to approve legislation that would not only make our state eligible, but also implement some far-reaching education reforms.
Earlier this year, President Barack Obama’s administration laid out a bold vision to reform education in the United States by introducing a $4.35-billion competitive grant known as Race to the Top (RTTT), of which California could be eligible for up to $700 million. This aggressive agenda challenges California leaders to develop a plan that addresses critical issues including the achievement gap, low achieving schools and dropout rates.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and state lawmakers, including State Sen. Gloria Romero, made the right decision to accept President Obama’s challenge and implement the reforms required for RTTT funding. Romero authored SB X5 1, which outlines a plan for turning around the bottom 5 percent of lowest achieving schools; removes the cap on the number of charter schools; authorizes greater use of data to improve instruction and student learning; and ensures that innovative strategies are in place in every school.
The State Senate passed SB X5 1 last week, but the State Assembly must take action as well. U.S. Secretary of Education Arnie Duncan released the regulations and guidelines for RTTT on Nov. 12, allowing states only 60 days to submit an application. The first hearing on this bill in Assembly Committee is on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 1 p.m. at the Metropolitan Water District Headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.
Historic state budget cuts to education have already put many of our students at an extreme disadvantage. California cannot afford to leave vital federal funding — or important education reforms — on the table.
Your voice is critical to make sure that California’s students are not only in the race, but poised to win. Take action today by voicing your support to legislators on the importance of SB X5 1. There is no time to waste when the future of our young people is on the line.