ii. Implementation of Common Core

CONDITIONS FOR LEARNING: Common Core Standards | LCFF PRIORITY 2

What Are The Common Core State Standards?

California’s adoption of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) set new expectations of what students should know and be able to do in Math, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies at the end of each grade on the K–12 pathway. The Common Core Standards are what students need to prepare for the future, and focus on deeper learning, critical thinking, and problem solving skills.

What Parents Need To Know

The implementation of the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) and the Common Core Standards represents both promising change and opportunity to • address the longstanding achievement gap in underserved communities; and • advance the opportunities for parents and schools to work together to create school programs tailored to local priorities at the district and school site levels. To have a positive, long-term impact on student achievement, LCFF investments in CCSS implementation must have a coordinated approach that includes targeted supports for struggling students. The challenge is to change the way in which school districts have traditionally approached education: as a “one-size-fits-all” model.

Why Are The Common Core State Standards Important?

In the past, language learners, students with special needs, and at-risk students were often denied access to rigorous, engaging, creative learning environments because schools were under intense pressure to improve standardized test scores. The education of many of these students focused on “teaching to the test” rather than developing crucial critical thinking skills. As result, little to no progress has been made in closing the persistent learning and achievement gaps. Common Core aims to provide all students with access to a rigorous, stimulating, and meaningful learning experience, particularly those students traditionally denied access, such as language learners, students with special needs, and at-risk students. CCSS seeks to develop increasingly sophisticated levels of thinking for all students as they progress through school.

What Parents Can Ask Their District During The LCAP Process

1. What kind of additional support services can we expect for high need students? 2. How is the district supporting effective teachers and school leaders? 3. Will teachers and leaders have time to learn and collaborate on best practices? 4. How is the district ensuring that students are proficient in reading and math? 5. How will the curriculum ensure that students are being prepared for the next level of learning and for college and career?