By Tony McVeigh
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-897277.mp3
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- – Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear says he's open to the idea of putting charter schools on the agenda of a special session on the budget. Senate President David Williams suggested the topic.
Beshear agrees with Williams that charter schools could enhance the state's application for federal Race to the Top dollars.
"We're all interested in getting $175 million of federal money to help improve our education system," Beshear says. "So, I want to explore this issue to see if there is any room to move in that direction."
Beshear still wants to talk with President Williams and House Speaker Greg Stumbo before setting a date for the special session. The session is necessary because lawmakers failed to pass a biennial budget during the 60-day regular session that ended last April 15.