Common Core State Standards

What is Common Core?

State education chiefs and governors in 48 states came together to develop the Common Core, a set of college and career-ready standards for K-12 in English language arts/literacy and mathematics. Today, 43 states have voluntarily adopted and are working to implement the standards.

Common core standards are important so that standards are consistent across states and provide teachers, parents, and students with a set of clear expectations ensuring all students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life after graduation. These standards are aligned to the expectations of colleges, workforce training programs, and employers. Unlike previous state standards, which varied widely from state to state, the Common Core enables collaboration among states on a range of tools and policies, including:

• Development of textbooks and digital media
• Development and implementation of comprehensive assessment systems that replace existing state testing systems in order to measure student performance annually and provide teachers with specific feedback to help ensure students are on the path to success

The reason english language arts and math were the subjects chosen for the Common Core State Standards is because they are areas upon which students build skill sets that are used in other subjects. Students must learn to read, write, speak, listen, and use language effectively in a variety of content areas, so the standards specify the literacy skills and understandings required for college and career readiness in multiple disciplines. 

What does Common Core mean for students today?

Today's students are preparing to enter a world in which colleges and businesses are demanding more than ever before. To ensure all students are prepared for success after graduation, the Common Core establishes a set of clear, consistent guidelines for what students should know and be able to do at each grade level in math and English language arts.

How does Common Core impact teachers?

• the standards impacts teachers by providing them with consistent goals and benchmarks to ensure students are progressing on a path for success in college, career, and life
• providing them with consistent expectations for students who move into their districts and classrooms from other states
• Helping colleges and professional development programs better prepare teachers

Source: www.corestandards.org