Utah public education anticipates federal stimulus funds

Utah public education officials are licking their chops — but are also leery of having their hands tied — as they anticipate federal stimulus dollars for schools statewide.

The state is to receive $298.4 million for public education under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. About two-thirds of the federal funding could arrive in a few weeks.

"Given our economic circumstances, it's critical that money go out quickly, but it's even more important that it be spent wisely," said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

A total of $44 billion is earmarked for public education across the nation. The funding, which comes with guidelines and requirements, is meant to boost education reform and save teaching jobs, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. is completing the state's public education stabilization fund application. He plans to send the forms to the federal education agency early this week, said Huntsman's spokeswoman Lisa Roskelley. Federal officials have two weeks to process and consider the application.

If approved, the education department would send $200 million to Utah. The remainder would come in the fall. States are to spend the funds over two years.

The stimulus money is broken down into program categories such as special-needs children and students living in poverty. Money is also slated for adults to learn technology skills.

But nothing comes for free.

"There could be strings attached. We'll see," said Todd Hauber, state associate superintendent of business services.

Federal education officials intend to hold states to yet-to-be determined guidelines.

"The first step toward real and lasting reform that will ensure our students' competitiveness begins with absolute transparency and accountability in how we invest our dollars," Duncan said.

The guidelines promote comprehensive education reform by analyzing the quality of classroom teachers; annual student improvements; college readiness; the effectiveness of state standards and assessments; progress on removing charter school caps; and interventions in turning around underperforming schools.

Public comment is being collected nationally on the proposed guidelines, with plans to finalize them this spring.