NOTE: The Race to the Top is not over. NYSUT leaders pledged to work with Regents Chancellor Merryl Tisch and Education Commissioner David Steiner as they look for ways to strengthen the state's current application for the second round of grants. Since only two states won in the first round, the good news is that about $3.4 billion remains to be awarded. New York, which is eligible to receive up to $700 million, was one of 16 finalist states that presented their proposals to panels of peer reviewers earlier this month. Applications for Phase 2 of Race to the Top are due on June 1, 2010.
Statement from NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi on Race to the Top awards
"Our congratulations go out to Delaware and Tennessee, the winners in this first round for Race to the Top funding. We wish them well as they move forward with implementing their proposals. While we're disappointed, NYSUT continues to believe New York submitted a good, solid application.
"As New York contemplates the second round, we will work with Chancellor Tisch and Commissioner Steiner to look at ways to enhance and strengthen our current application in the best interests of our students and schools.
"It is critical that New York not compromise principles of excellence designed to provide an equal educational opportunity for every child. This should not be about trading values for dollars. First and foremost, it's about what's good for kids and what is fair to communities and teachers."
NYSUT, the state's largest union, represents more than 600,000 teachers, school-related professionals, academic and professional faculty in higher education, professionals in education and health care and retirees. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.
-30-