Common Core State Standards
What Parents Need to Know
I’d like to take time to introduce something that’s new in education. If you have not heard of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) movement yet, it is only a matter of time before you do. The governors of our states have worked together to begin a movement that focuses on high standards in math and English language arts for all students, and also works to bring states into closer alignment regarding what students should know and be able to do. They seek to improve the college and career readiness of students upon graduation from high school. Over forty states have joined the movement, and Missouri is one of them. The national parent-teacher organization (PTA) has published a series of The Parents’ Guide to Student Success. The Guides includes four key components:
- Key items that children should be learning in English and math in each grade;
- Activities that parents can do at home to support their child’s learning;
- Ways parents can build stronger relationships with their child’s teacher; and
- Tips for planning for college and career (high school guides only).
Please take time to look at the Guides that relate to high school students. For English, it may be found at http://www.pta.org/HS_ELAFeb4.pdf. For math, look at http://www.pta.org/HS_MathFeb4.pdf. These provide helpful talking points both at home with your student, and when corresponding with math and English language arts teachers.
