First, Figure Out the Online App, Then ...

In a Wednesday Federal Register item from the Education Department regarding the Statewide Longitudinal Data System Grant Program. The program awards grants between $1.5 million and $6 million to states for data systems that more accurately analyze student performance. Last year Education awarded grants to 13 states, bringing the total number of states that have received grants to 27.

The notice requesting applications for fiscal year 2009 was published on June 26. Unfortunately, the system was apparently not equipped to handle the rush of eager applicants:

As a result of the notice published on June 26, 2008, 34 eligible entities submitted applications. A number of applicants, however, experienced difficulty with submitting their applications electronically, and, as a result, a few applications were received shortly after the original deadline.

Is it just me, or is it disconcerting that the people who are given millions of dollars to improve the technology used to track student performance cannot successfully submit a grant application online? I'm pretty sure there is a disconnect there somewhere. I've put a call in to Education to find out what the problem is.

The notice goes on to say that in the interest of fairness, all applications received through Grants.gov to this point will be accepted, and Education has extended the deadline through Nov. 26. The preferred method of delivery going forward? Paper.