New York State Named Race to the Top Finalist:

I am pleased that New York State has been selected as a finalist in the first round of the federal Race to the Top competition. The Regents and I commend our many partners in school districts across the state for their support in developing New York’s application.  Together, we developed a strong and competitive proposal -- one that will advance the bold reforms needed to turn around failing schools, close the achievement gap and enable all of our children to succeed. These reforms aim to ensure that all of New York’s public schools have truly effective teachers and principals, high quality curricula, well-designed assessments and are focused on the academic success of every child. We continue to recognize the importance of Legislative action to the Regents’ broader agenda for education reform. We look forward to presenting our case in Washington for a comprehensive, integrated and innovative education reform agenda for New York State.