Stimulus Funds for Schools Hang in Limbo

Now that the $787 billion stimulus package has passed, local education leaders want to know the details of what they can do with the money and how they will receive it, reports Juan Antonio Lizama of the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Many states had already made deep cuts to try to make a dent in their deficits, which leaves county superintendents such as Francis R. Moore wondering whether the cuts still stand.

"Will that cover it all or just part?" Moore asked. "We are projected to be cut $2.6 million [in 2009-10] based upon the governor's amendments. What about fiscal year 2011? Is this just a temporary fix? We are just playing a waiting game right now."

The stimulus package will help offset those cuts by allowing districts to retain teachers and maintain class sizes; however, Donald J. Ford, president of the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principles, said no one is certain how the money can be spent because of possible strings attached to funds.


For the complete story, visit the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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• Stimulus Update: Education Recipients Give Mixed Reviews