The state took over three New Jersey districts more than a decade ago, but observers on the ground say the results have been mixed.

John White, who has lead the Recovery School District since the spring, could be moving into the position vacated earlier this year by Paul Pastorek.

Atlanta, roiled by a state test cheating scandal earlier this year, was among the districts showing improved performance.

Stakeholders in the district are still divided on a governance plan for the district, slated to lose its accreditation Jan. 1.

"School Budget Hold 'Em," a free resource, balances budget cuts with strategic investments.

Chicago is investing $20 million in the effort to improve the schools, which enroll about 5,800 students.

The $96 million will be used to erase the district's debt, pay for early childhood classes and principal training, among other programs.

The district, once recognized as one of the best urban school systems in the country, is struggling with low test scores and graduation rates.

The Walton Family Foundation is announcing its plans today to donate $25.5 million to the Knowledge is Power Program, or KIPP, charter network.

The authority will take over management of some of the state's lowest-performing schools, but will not focus entirely on Detroit in its first year, as had been previously stated.