Statement from Education Commissioner David Steiner on New York's Race to the Top Plan

"In an effort to ensure that New York presents the strongest and most competitive Race to the Top application possible and in light of the productive ongoing discussions occurring between school districts, unions and policy makers in districts that have not yet signed, we will be extending the deadline for eligible districts and charter schools to sign on to the state’s Memorandum of Understanding.

I am in regular contact with school leaders, policy makers and union officials and am hopeful that we will be able to forge a consensus to move forward with the bold reforms necessary to close the achievement gap, turn around failing schools and ensure that all of our children succeed."