Education News: November 13, 2009

Following are some of the top headlines from the world of education for the week ending November 13, 2009.

More Stimulus Money for Schools
(USA Today, November 11) The Obama administration, which has already distributed $67 billion to schools, has announced that they are willing to offer more stimulus money. The additional $11.5 billion will be made available to states prepared to adopt policies reflective of the administration’s goals. The money is separate from the Race to the Top Campaign, however like Race to the Top funds will only be granted to states that show dedication to education reform.

Education Jobs Hard to Come by
(San Francisco Chronicle, November 12) In the past America’s teacher shortage proved to be beneficial for prospective educators looking for jobs. However, with recent economic problems many prospective teachers struggle to secure positions. Since last year nearly 125,000 jobs in education related fields have been cut. Many teachers intending to switch jobs or retire find themselves stalling, resulting in a fiercely competitive job market.

Alabama to Increase Cost of Teacher Benefits
(San Francisco Chronicle, November 5) November 11) A financial plan proposed by the Alabama Board of Education could result in increased costs for state educator’s health and retirement benefits. With the recession limiting tax collection, State Superintendent of Education Joe Morton claims that the plan is necessary for financial survival. The plan also includes a one percent increase in funding for k-12 schools.

How Important are Teachers’ Salaries?
(Chicago Tribune, November 9) The 2009 Illinois Report Card has shown an increased salary disparity between two of the state’s more successful schools. Oak Brooks Butler School and Prairie Crossing Charter School boast similar academic records; however teachers at Brooks Butler earn an average of $80,136 versus the $38,040 at Prairie Crossing. The stark difference in Illinois’s salary gap has sparked debate about the importance of teacher salary.

Race to the Top Finalized
(Education Week, November 11) The final regulations for the Race to the Top campaign have been finalized as states scurry to meet its criteria. In order to qualify for a portion of the $4 billion in federal grants, state applications will have to exhibit convincing plans for educational reform. Teachers’ unions have taken issue with the campaign’s push for evaluation based on student performance. Other critics claim that Race to the Top is a “one-size-fits-all” campaign. The US Department of Education continues to defend the campaign offering states with detailed instructions for the applications.

California Eligible for $700 Million
(Los Angeles Times, NNovember 12) In order to enhance eligibility for federal grant money, California lawmakers have worked furiously to reform educational policy. Now that the Race to the Top guidelines have been finalized, California is eligible for up to $700 million. With only sixty days to apply for the grant, state officials are under a tremendous amount of pressure to ensure federal funding. The state’s mad rush is reflective of the national climate as states aim to improve America’s education system.

Pennsylvania Education Secretary Welcomes Competition
(Philadelphia Inquirer, November 13) With the release of the Race to the Top grant application, Pennsylvania Education Secretary Gerald Zahorchak has embraced the competition. Zahorchak views the competition as a great opportunity and a chance to build on the academic success of Pennsylvania schools. Pennsylvania and the neighboring state of New Jersey are both eligible for up to $400 million in grant funds. New Jersey Secretary of Education Lucille Davy has refrained from commenting until the state reviews the 200 page application.