Modernizing at least 35, 000 public schools across the country, supporting new science labs, Internet-ready classrooms and renovations at schools across the country, in rural and urban areas.

FORBES: Bringing Overseas Corporate Profits Back To US Not Necessarily A Job Booster

They maintain most schools are ready and children have a right to experience the new lessons as soon as possible.

BBC: Row over plans for new curriculum in Scotland

To receive the funds, the states had to prove that they were progressing in specific areas including turning around low-performing schools, adopting college- and career-ready standards, and using data systems to support student achievement.

CNN: Tennessee, Delaware schools to get Race to the Top funds

The problem is that it gives credit to schools that attract the best students rather than schools that take poorly prepared students and help them get ready for the next stage.

FORBES: Bill Gates Says There Is Something Perverse In College Ratings

You going to help me? (Applause.) All right, well let me -- but before you sign on -- (laughter) -- let me just tell you what I need you to do, because we can make all these changes in your communities, your parents can do things differently, the schools can do things differently, but if you're not open to change and ready to do your part, then it won't work either, right?

WHITEHOUSE: Let's Move Rally in Jackson, Mississippi