Innovative Learning Solutions

The U.S. Department of Education has approved $681 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding for Arizona schools, helping to keep hundreds of teachers employed, despite deep budget cuts in education.

The state will be eligible to apply for an additional $336 million in recovery act funds once the school year starts this fall.

Arizona schools already received $209 million in ARRA money, in part through Title I, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Impact Aid grants.

U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell, Arizona’s Fifth Congressional District, who is a former teacher, said investments in education are critical to the future.

“While the Arizona Legislature continues to propose education cuts to balance their budget, this funding helps to show our commitment to our teachers and students — that their future matters,” he said. “A strong education translates into a more prepared, competitive work force and a sustainable economic future.”

In order to receive this new allotment of funds, the state had to provide assurances that it will analyze, publish, and act on information regarding the quality of classroom teachers, student improvements, college readiness, the effectiveness of state standards and assessments, progress on removing charter caps, and interventions in turning around underperforming schools.

U.S. Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, Arizona’s First Congressional District, said the funds will help invest in the state’s children and future.

“These funds will help ensure our kids get the education they need to succeed in the 21st century by keeping our best teachers in the classroom and holing our schools to higher standards,” she said.

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2009/06/08/daily46.html?ana=from_rss