Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Education Jobs funding application

For Immediate Release: September 10, 2010

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement on the state�s application for Education Jobs funding from the federal government:

�Yesterday we submitted our application to the federal Department of Education for Washington�s portion of the Education Jobs money recently passed by Congress and approved by President Obama.

�Based on federal guidance, we anticipate eligibility for $208 million through this program. The funds will be distributed to school districts through the state�s general apportionment formula � the state�s primary funding formula.

�These funds will help our school districts immediately, supporting educational programs during the 2010-2011 school year. The money can only be used to pay for teacher jobs and other education employees such as paraeducators, school counselors, and school librarians.

�The U.S. Department of Education has placed a priority on streamlining delivery of this funding to states. We anticipate approval of the application and availability of funds by Oct. 1.

�I thank Sen. Patty Murray and the rest of the Washington delegation for their efforts to secure the Education Jobs funding. This money will provide much needed financial assistance to school districts and help our students receive the quality instruction they deserve.�