Penny-wise, pound foolish

Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009 | 2:06 a.m.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced a school improvement program called “Race for the Top” this year, offering $4.35 billion in grants to states that have innovative plans and initiatives.

As Emily Richmond reported in Sunday’s Las Vegas Sun, Nevada could receive up to $200 million, but at this point, the state won’t get a penny because it isn’t eligible for the money. One of the basic qualifications for the program is that states must allow student test scores to be used as a tool to evaluate teachers. Unlike most states, Nevada has outlawed that practice.

The state could quickly change the law to become eligible, but for that to happen, Gov. Jim Gibbons would have to call the Legislature into a special session. Gibbons has refused to call a special session just to change the law, noting that it would cost roughly $100,000. That is foolish. Although there is no guarantee the state would receive any money even if it changes the law, the cost of a special session would be a small investment toward a large potential payout.

Duncan has said he wants to see states with a strong commitment to education receive the first round of grant money. A special session to change the law would certainly show commitment.

Unfortunately, Nevada has never provided strong support for education, and Gibbons’ response to the idea of a special session is proof of that. For years the state has failed to adequately fund the schools and pay teachers like the professionals they are.

Nevada’s school system needs an overhaul, having suffered for too many years from neglect by governors and lawmakers. Changing the law to allow test scores to be used in evaluating teachers is not a panacea, but it would send a message that Nevada is serious about improving the quality of education. Until state leaders make education a priority, our schools — and our children — will continue to suffer.