Federal 'Race to the Top' funding deadline nears

MEA working to address concerns about some unproven reforms

As the deadline for states to apply for competitive stimulus funds for schools draws nearer, it’s unclear how much money will make its way into Michigan classrooms – and what strings might be attached to that investment.

MEA has been working with the Michigan Department of Education and lawmakers on several reforms related to the state’s effort to secure a portion of $4.35 billion in federal money intended to help schools.

The money is part of the federal stimulus packaged signed into law in February. Nearly $54 billion was earmarked for education, including $4.35 billion to be awarded through competitive grants under the “Race to the Top” program.

Michigan, along with other states, is preparing its application for the competitive funds (Michigan’s effort is dubbed “Project ReImagine”). It’s become clear that preference will be given to states that agree to a number of controversial measures, including alternative teacher certification, an increase in the number of public charter schools, and merit pay.

Even as lawmakers race to finish the 2009-2010 budget by Oct. 1, they are debating whether to include some of the reforms. Other proposals are expected to be taken up over the next couple of months, either by the Legislature or the State Board of Education.

MEA has worked with Rep. Tim Melton, D-Auburn Hills, on a series of bills (House Bills 4787-4789) to help chronically low-performing schools. Melton’s proposal would amend state collective bargaining law, allowing school districts and employee unions to negotiate matters that currently are prohibited, including the starting date of the school year, the composition of site-based decision-making bodies, and outsourcing of non-instructional services. MEA supports the package as it passed the House.

Meanwhile, MEA is monitoring several other efforts, including:

• Legislation to allow a fast-track to certification for prospective educators of certain subjects, a proposal that aims to address purported teacher shortages in some areas. Whether shortages actually exist is arguable. The plan raises questions about teacher preparation, with MEA pushing to ensure that certification includes proper training in pedagogy

• Promotion of merit pay concepts, though there is no credible evidence or research that supports a policy linking teacher compensation to student achievement. MEA does not support efforts to base pay solely on standardized test scores.

• “Neighborhood public schools” legislation, creating new public schools that are akin to charter schools. There isn’t any credible evidence that increasing the number of charter schools will improve student achievement.

• Legislation attacking (officially referred to as “modifying”) tenure.

• A Michigan Department of Education plan to create a three-tier licensure system.

While each of these efforts is independent, they are all linked to eligibility for the federal funds.

MEA leaders and staff will continue to work with state officials to ensure that Michigan’s application for federal funds is as complete as possible. While $4.35 billion represents a significant investment, the money has to be spread across thousands of schools in 50 states.

The state is working toward a Dec. 1 deadline to submit the federal application for the first round of grants; a second round is planned in 2010.

Updated: September 28, 2009