N.J. asks for education funds after error

New Jersey is asking the federal government for $75 million in unallocated “Race to the Top” education funds after an administrative error cost the state $400 million in federal help. 

New Jersey Education Commissioner Bret Schundler wrote Secretary of Education Arne Duncan asking for the smaller amount. He said New Jersey would have received much more without the error. 

“I ask you to provide New Jersey with the requested $75 million in remaining funds not only for the sake of our children, but so we can more effectively model for all of America’s school systems how significantly our Race to The Top reforms can increase student learning,” Schundler wrote.

The letter came after the administration of Gov. Chris Christie (R) mistakenly filled out a portion of its “Race to the Top” application that cost the state almost five points on the ratings scale that determined how the funds were to be allocated.

The
five-point question asked for budget information comparing the 2008 and
2009 school years. But the state entered data comparing the current
year to 2011 instead.

The incident gained national attention and sparked criticism of federal bureaucracy from Christie, who accepted responsibility for the clerical error but blamed the Obama administration for including too much red tape in the program. 

Schundler’s letter includes praise for the state’s education program. 

Ten finalist states have been awarded “Race to the Top” grants though an application process, showing they will use the funds to implement reforms such as teacher performance standards and increasing charter schools. 

No appeals process exists for the grants.