Race to the Top spurs big changes in education policy

Last summer, President Barack Obama announced a $4 billion education initiative aimed at boosting student achievement nationwide. States essentially compete for grant money with points awarded for innovation and reforms.

The deadline for applications is today and Washington is among the states that has thrown its hat in the ring. Just yesterday Governor Gregoire unveiled a package of legislation aimed at making Washington a competitive player. Despite many of the historically contentious issues addressed in her proposal, Gregoire is keeping detractors at bay, at least for now.

Though K-12 education was the most protected pot of money in last year's budget balancing act, legislators cut about $795 million from non-basic education. And with more cuts likely, money is a particularly enticing carrot for making bold changes such as new teacher and principal evaluation programs and strategies for dealing with failing schools. Washington could be eligible for as much as $250 million.

Rep. Reuven Carlyle is a particularly dogged supporter of Race to the Top. He gives a nice breakdown of how he thinks Washington will fare in the race.

Race to the Top is not something all states are gunning for. NPR featured a story today that touches on why some states are choosing not to participate.

Winners will be announced in April. States who aren't awarded funding in this first round can enter into a second round of grants to be awarded in September.