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CHICAGO, ILL. -- “Advance Illinois is thrilled that Illinois is a finalist in Round 2 of the federal Race to the Top competition,” said Robin Steans, Executive Director, Advance Illinois.  “We think this reflects hard and smart work on the part of the state and its partners, and builds on our 5^th-place finish in Round One.”

Noting passage of recent legislation creating a rigorous new principal endorsement for Illinois, Steans added, “It’s no surprise that Illinois continues to be a strong contender for $400 million in federal dollars.  Legislative and executive action taken to strengthen Illinois’ principal pipeline combined with increased buy-in from local school districts bolstered Illinois’ initial application, and made a strong application even more competitive.”            

Steans also congratulated lawmakers, union leaders, higher education, district leadership and the Illinois State Board of Education for their perseverance.

“Since the Race to the Top competition was announced, Illinois’ education community has kept its nose to the grindstone and used this opportunity to think seriously about how to better prepare the next generation.  I’m pleased to see this recognition from the federal government and Secretary Duncan for the state’s efforts.  We’re all hoping for a grant, but regardless of the outcome, the state now has an ambitious plan in place.  That makes us winners already.” 

The Illinois team will interview in Washington, D.C. in early August, and a final announcement of state winners is expected in early September, Steans said.

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Governor Pat Quinn today issued a statement regarding Illinois’ selection as a finalist for the second phase of the U.S. Department of Education’s ‘Race to the Top’ competition.  

“A top-notch education for all Illinois students is our number one priority, and we are in a great position to take full advantage of the federal funding available through Race to the Top,” said Governor Quinn. “Today’s announcement puts us another step closer to securing this important federal education funding. In the midst of these tough economic times, we are working harder than ever before to bring federal money home to Illinois.” 

‘Race to the Top’ is a $4.35 billion competitive grant program funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). ‘Race to the Top’ aims to drive education reform and boost student success, principles to which Illinois is deeply committed. States are evaluated based on their commitment to enhancing standards and assessments; improving data collection and use; strengthening teacher and administrator effectiveness; and turning around struggling schools.