Wisconsin is eligible to receive $250 million in federal Race to the Top funds, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
The Race to the Top program is meant for states to compete for federal education grants. Iowa and Minnesota are eligible for up to $175 million, and Illinois and Michigan are eligible for up to $400 million.
However, according to state Rep. Sondy Pope-Roberts, D-Middleton, these figures are ""arbitrary.""
""There are $4.35 billion [funds] available,"" Pope-Roberts said. ""No one knows how many states will apply, how many will qualify, or how the grant will be distributed.""
President Barack Obama, in his speech at a Madison middle school on Nov. 4, said states committed to developing a plan to reform and improve education will receive a grant to put that plan into action.
Earlier this week, one prominent measure that removes the state's ""firewall law""—which allows teachers to be evaluated based on student test scores—was passed by the Legislature.
According to Pope-Roberts, Wisconsin lawmakers may take even bolder steps in their effort to obtain funds.
The Milwaukee Public School district may undergo a change of leadership if a special legislative session is called. In order to demonstrate Wisconsin's focus on improving education, some lawmakers hope to pass a plan that would allow for mayoral takeover of MPS.
""I think what the president and secretary Duncan are looking for are bold reform measures,"" Pope-Roberts said. ""That is certainly an example.""
Governors in states across the nation will apply for funding by January 2010. Grant distribution will be announced in September 2010.
