Bennet: Recovery Act Funds Will Help Save Jobs, Drive Reform in Colorado Public Schools

Ed Secretary Duncan Announces Release of $509 Million in Funding to Stave Off Job Cuts, Support Reform in Colorado Public Schools

Washington, DC - Michael Bennet, Senator for Colorado, today lauded U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan's release of over $509 million in fiscal relief to help prevent widespread teacher layoffs and accelerate education reform in Colorado's public schools.

The State Stabilization funds, authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), are being released today per Colorado's successful completion of the first part of the State Stabilization Application, which was made available in April. Colorado will be eligible to apply for another $251 million this fall.

"It's an unfortunate reality that when state and local governments are looking to scale back their budgets, public education is one of the first items on the chopping block," said Bennet. "This funding will help stave off painful cuts and keep our teachers where we need them most - in the classroom educating our kids. And they'll support public school reform that works for our kids and will help them compete in the new economy."

For more information on Secretary Duncan's announcement on Colorado State Stabilization funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, please click here.