Oklahoma Governor Race to the Top Measure

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Gov. Brad Henry has signed legislation to strengthen Oklahoma schools and bolster the state's application in the federal Race to the Top education grant competition.

Henry signed the bill on Friday, the final day of the 2010 Oklahoma Legislature.

Henry says Race to the Top is a chance for the state to implement bold reforms that will help children and the state succeed and prosper.

The legislation includes optional teacher incentive pay for districts, an Oklahoma teacher evaluation system and an Oklahoma Race to the Top Commission consisting of experts from throughout the education field.

It also addresses ways to improve schools listed as low-achieving.

Henry says the bill recognizes the state's best and brightest teachers and gives them the tools they need to help students excel.