FAIRFAX, Va. (AP) - The Fairfax County school system is applying for a federal grant worth up to $40 million to help overhaul the schools that serve its poorest students.

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The Washington Post reports the school system is pursuing the grant as part of the Obama administration's Race to the Top initiative.

Assistant Superintendent Kim Dockery says the schools needs every dollar possible in tight budget times.

Enrollment has surged beyond 180,000 students this year. While Fairfax is one of the nation's most affluent counties, 42,000 students live below the poverty line.

The grant would focus on schools where more than 40 percent of the students receive free or reduced-price lunches.

Previously the grants were only for state education agencies. In August, the White House announced 2012 grants are available to school systems.

Information from: http://www.washingtonpost.com