Here are three more predictions I have about RTT finalists:
- No Rural States: Some of the weakest applications I've seen are from rural states. They way they are thinking about reform doesn't mix so well with RTT priorities. Whether that implicates the RTT application or the rural-state mindset is an open question.
- Gates-funded Consultants: States that received grants from Gates to hire consultants generally had the most impressive applications, at least in terms of organization, presentation, and explanation. These firms seemed to help significantly when it came to the look and feel of the proposals, though occasionally under the gloss were some ho-hum ideas.
- Right to Work States: States with weaker unions generally had stronger applications, though there were exceptions.
--Andy Smarick