Mass. Leaders Celebrate Federal Education Funds

Educators and lawmakers gathered at the State House Tuesday to celebrate the recent award of $50 million in federal Race to the Top funds.

The money will be used to support early education programs around the state.

Massachusetts is just one of nine states that qualified for the funding. The money, which will be spread out over four years, is aimed at reducing the achievement gap and ensuring children are ready to learn by the time they get to kindergarten.

Worcester Schools Superintendent Melinda Boone says the grant will help students in her district.

"We're no longer doing the early literacy work alone in K-12 education," Boone said. "We have strong partners now in early education and care and we're rowing in the same direction."

When asked if his budget, due to be released next week, will contain additional money for early education, Gov. Deval Patrick said he'll do the best he can.