PRECISELY AS PREDICTED: In order to shield themselves from the accountability that comes wth RTTT, the HSTA, DoE, and BoE have successfully sabotaged Hawaii's application for RTTT funds. Their methods: Furloughs, and the continuing cap on start-up charter schools.
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ADV: Hawaii not among states chosen for federal Race to the Top funding
"Hawaii should also demonstrate that we can implement a new education governance structure that holds a single person — the governor — accountable for the success or failure of our school system," Lingle said. (Will the Legislature step up and push this thru in order to make RTTT funds available to Hawaii?)
SB: Hawaii left behind as feds pick finalists for 'Race to the Top' education funds
Last year, Duncan lambasted Hawaii for its decision to shut down public schools for 17 Furlough Fridays this academic year and another 17 next year to help close the state's budget gap.
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STATEMENT BY GOVERNOR LINDA LINGLE REGARDING RACE TO THE TOP FINALISTS
“Although Hawai‘i was not selected during this initial round of competitive grants, we have the opportunity to strengthen Hawai‘i’s application for Round II awards.
“Round II applications will be due in June. Hawai‘i could be awarded up to $75 million in federal funds.
“During the next two months Hawai‘i will need to demonstrate we are serious about meeting the criteria set forth in the Race to the Top application. These criteria include implementing a performance-based evaluation and compensation system for teachers and principals; eliminating statutory, financial and policy barriers to the growth of quality charter schools; and making a firm commitment to increasing student achievement, particularly in math and English.
“Hawai‘i should also demonstrate that we can implement a new education governance structure that holds a single person—the Governor—accountable for the success or failure of our school system.
“My Administration will continue to work with the Legislature, the Board of Education, the Department of Education, concerned non-profit organizations, and community members to set forth a compelling, updated vision for education in Hawai‘i in our application.”
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