The council discussed federal “Race to the Top” funding for schools this morning. The funds come in the form of competitive grants from the U.S. Dept. of Education to states who are creating the conditions for educational innovation and reform. Also, state schools superintendent Randy Dorm was elected chair of the council. This afternoon they’ll start discussion on creating a  new funding system for Washington schools.

Sen. Eric Oemig, vice chair of the Senate education committee, serves on the council along with committee chair Rosemary McAuliffe and 11 other state education policy leaders.