CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 27-Jul-2010

The Legislature approved a variety of school reform measures this year, including some designed to put Oklahoma in a position to compete for federal “race to the top” grants. Nonetheless, the state was not among the finalists announced today in the federal Race to the Top grant competition.

Governor Brad Henry sent the following statement early this afternoon to CapitolBeatOK:

“We felt we put forth a strong proposal backed up with real reforms, but we knew this process was going to be very challenging and it would be difficult to make the finalist list.  

“The latest news certainly doesn’t diminish the promise of the reforms and innovations we are now implementing in our public school system. With or without federal Race to the Top funding, Oklahoma is moving ahead with its efforts to improve classroom outcomes and boost student success. Even though we didn’t secure a federal grant, Oklahoma’s public education system will be better because of our competition in Race to the Top.

“I want to commend Kathy Taylor and Superintendent Sandy Garrett for all of their good work. I also want to thank the coalition of lawmakers, business leaders, education advocates and other stakeholders who worked hard and contributed to this effort. The reforms and innovations they conceived and pushed through the Legislature will provide benefits for years to come.”