The decision of whether Colorado should apply for up to $175 million in federal education grants in the second round of the Race to the Top competition seems like a no-brainer, but state officials aren't sure.
Two big sticking points: Colorado's unsuccessful first-round application didn't have full union support, and not every school district bought in.
To make a second-round application viable, they'll have to correct both problems, plus create a reform package that appeals to teachers and federal reviewers.
Also, the state would be asking for about $200 million less than it sought in the first round.
"That's one of the questions that we have" for the U.S. Department of Education, said Nina Lopez, director of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the Colorado Department of Education. "Are you expecting us to explain the same plan for less money and, gee, get all the districts to sign on?"