"Because improving education is central to rebuilding our economy, we set aside over $4 billion in the Recovery Act to promote improvements in schools.  This is one of the largest investments in education reform in American history."  President Obama, July 2009."But to thrive in the 21st century - to invest in education, infrastructure and innovation - America cannot afford a politics of mindless austerity either."  Thomas Friedman, December 25, 2010.(Read Full Post)