What We Need to Know

According to the Common Core State Standards Initiative (2014):

High standards that are consistent across states provide teachers, parents, and students with a set of clear expectations to ensure that all students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life upon graduation from high school, regardless of where they live. These standards are aligned to the expectations of colleges, workforce training programs, and employers. The standards promote equity by ensuring all students are well prepared to collaborate and compete with their peers in the United States and abroad. 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 the:

-  Development of textbooks, digital media, and other teaching materials
-  Development and implementation of common 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
-  Development of tools and other supports to help educators and schools

   ensure all students are able to learn the new standards