CT is not a finalist in the second go around for the federal Race to the Top jackpot. Finalists, are: Arizona, California, Colorado, DC, Florida, Georga, Hawaii, Illinoise, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and South Carolina. The announcement is being made now in Washington by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan at the National Press Club.
Alex Johnson, director of ConnCan, a educational advocacy group, said he is dismayed but not surprised. He said the state took a big step forward this year but has a long way to go.
“There is no question, the bar was set high,” he said.
Gov. M Jodi Rell, also expressed disappointment.
” We submitted a very strong application that offered a clear blueprint for achieving our goals. Our application was overwhelmingly backed by an extraordinary collaboration of government, education, businesses and local officials.
“This decision is an affront to all the dedicated individuals who worked long and hard to make our case. However, it cannot and will not lessen our commitment in providing the best education we can for our children.”
