States apply for second round of Race to the
Top-Early Learning Challenge

The U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that five eligible states — Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wisconsin — have submitted applications for the second round of Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge. The Departments will allocate up to $133 million to fund investments in state-level, comprehensive early education reform.

“The road to good jobs and a healthy economy runs through the classroom, and we can give every child a strong start by increasing access to high-quality early learning programs,” said U.S. Secretary of Education. “By applying for the Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge, these states are continuing commitments to provide children — especially those with high needs — the tools to enter kindergarten ready to succeed in their education and ultimately their careers.”

“For our nation to compete in the global economy, we need the talents of all of our people,” said the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Strong early education programs are a key part to helping every child reach their full potential.”

Last year, 35 States, D.C. and Puerto Rico applied for the Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge, creating plans that increase access to high-quality programs for children from low-income families, and provide more children from birth to age 5 with a strong foundation needed to succeed in school and beyond. The Administration awarded nine grants in the first round.

Internet: <www.ed.gov> (adapted).