By the Numbers

Lawmakers working to fix Arkansas ailing educational system are again challenging the governors reform ideas by the numbers. Mike Huckabees "LEARN" plan drops the idea that districts with fewer than 1500 students should be consolidated. Instead it focuses on high school size and suggests that those smaller than 425 students should have to prove they can perform. If they can, they can continue to exist. If not, the school would have to partner with another to deliver a high-quality education or face closure. Lawmakers on the joint committee on education say a plan with a fixed number and exceptions may not be defensible in court. Many are afraid thatll create a loophole that might make the state vulnerable to another suit about equity. Lawmakers are also concerned that the plan doesnt build in immediate sanctions for large, non-performing schools. The committee plans to meet weekly to try to work out its differences before a planned special session on education in December.