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ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) Minnesota's quest for "Race to the Top" stimulus dollars for education is shaping up to be a relay.

State officials set out Monday on a four-day, 10 city tour seeking input on school changes that would help Minnesota land more of the competitive grants.

The pool of more than $4 billion will be spread among states that toughen academic standards, find better ways to recruit and keep effective teachers, track student performance and have a plan to turn around failing schools.

State Education Commissioner Alice Seagren said Minnesota could have a head start because of programs like QComp, which structures teacher salaries to factor in performance as well as seniority.

Nonetheless, a stakeholder group of education, business and civic leaders are seeking extra ideas that could be incorporated into a state application.

The information sessions are planned for Roseville, Rochester, St. Cloud, Marshall, Mankato, Bemidji, Thief River Falls, Fergus Falls, Proctor and Mountain Iron.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-26-09 0500CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list