Florida Applies for Federal Race to the Top Grant, With Conditions Attached

Attempting to allay tea party concerns about participating in the federal Race to the Top education program, Gov. Rick Scott on Wednesday said that the state's grant application does not "unduly burden state taxpayers [or] commit state dollars to federal unfunded mandates."

Seeking a $100 million award from the U.S. Department of Education, Florida is one of four states eligible for an Early Learning Challenge grant.

The funds would focus on high-risk children in partnership with businesses. The voluntary program would provide child care providers with access to mini-grants to build capacity for delivering services to high-risk youngsters.

Full story upcoming.