Martinez: States Need More Flexibility to Provide the Best Education

Press Release

MARTINEZ: STATES NEED MORE FLEXIBILITY TO PROVIDE THE BEST EDUCATION

U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today co-sponsored the Academic Partnership Lead Us to Success Act of 2007 (A-PLUS), which will allow states to combine selected federal education program funds into one stream that can then be used for state-driven education priorities.

"A-Plus will give states the flexibility administrators need to put forth the best education for our children. The reforms also build on and maintain clear standards of accountability with an emphasis on transparency," Martinez said. "Under this reform, Florida's schools will have the ability to meet the specific needs of disadvantaged students unique to each class, school, and district."

Through A-PLUS, all states would have the option of entering into a 5-year Performance Agreement with the Secretary of Education. In exchange for flexibility, participating states would have to meet their performance objectives for improving student academic achievement and demonstrate a narrowing of the achievement gaps. A-PLUS would require states to continue annual reports on student progress and use of funds to parents, the general public, and the Secretary.

"We need to ensure that our teachers and administrators have the most efficient and effective tools available for Florida's children to learn and succeed. A-PLUS gets us there," Martinez concluded.

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