The scramble for education funding

The Obama administration's financial commitment to education is unprecedented. The stimulus package includes $4.35 billion for a program called Race to the Top, which essentially is a race for the money among states.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan calls it "a reform competition," in which states can boost their odds of winning federal support. Those who don't enter the game won't get the cash.

Some states have opted out because of the amount of work required, but Illinois is forging ahead. Playing the right cards could bring our state a $400 million bounty.

What's more, five suburban schools are among those in line to receive some of the money. Dundee-Crown, Elgin, Larkin, Streamwood and Round Lake high schools are on the state's list of 181 lowest-achieving schools, judging by standardized test scores. The designation was bittersweet for their leaders, who are both excited about the possibilities and disappointed by the label.

Earlier this year we stated we were wary that the federal school funds might have strings attached. We believe local control to be a hallmark of our educational system. What would Duncan require as he dangled the new carrot?

Now the picture is clearer. States that raise caps on the number of charter schools and open more paths to alternative teacher certification will have a competitive advantage. They also must link principal and teacher evaluations to student performance and get on board with multistate testing standards.

Last summer, the state checked off the charter school requirement with legislation that doubled the number allowed, from 60 to 120. In addition, the Illinois State Board of Education has been a leader in the initiative for common state standards. These actions are positive steps toward making sure our children have the best possible education the state can provide.

The state superintendent believes Illinois is in a good position to apply by the Jan. 19 deadline. However, a major piece remains missing: the teacher evaluation requirement, which will be more difficult to pass through the General Assembly. Teachers unions have fought against linking teacher and student performance, and no doubt some careful negotiation will be needed.

When lawmakers return to work Jan. 12, they will have one week before the Race to the Top application deadline. Some lawmakers are pushing for action.

It's unrealistic to think sweeping changes could be made in such a short period - nor should they. However, as legislation on teacher evaluations comes up - perhaps in time for the second application deadline on June 1 - we urge thoughtful collaboration among lawmakers, the board and teachers unions.

Race to the Top is about reform, and underlying that is improving student achievement. As Principal Lynn McCarthy said about Dundee-Crown's chance at getting funds, "If we can qualify, that will just help our students." That's the perspective all involved must not forget.