The
Common Core State Standards (CCSS) provide a practical way to prepare children
for the challenges of a constantly changing world – by learning step-by-step
the real-world skills they need for career and college.
Wisconsin
continues to move forward now so that all children – no matter where they come from or
where they live – receive a world-class education that’s consistent from school
to school, and graduate ready to contribute to the future of our state and our
country.
Wisconsin
is putting these standards to work, using them as the foundation for remodeling
our education system. The standards keep the best of what we have, and placing a
clear focus on the key knowledge and skills students need, and provide teachers
the time to teach them well .With the clear goals of career and college
readiness for all, the Common Core State Standards will help us to better prepare
our students to succeed on pace with their school aged peers across the state
and the nation.
Preparing
Students for Career and College
Goal – all students
graduating from our public school system as life- long learners will have the
skills and knowledge necessary to assume their positions in the 21st century
global economy.
§ The
new standards are designed to be relevant in the real world, reflecting the
knowledge and skills students need for success in both higher education and
career.
§ Our
communities will be stronger if students graduate with the skills and knowledge
needed in today’s job market.
Will
There Be New Tests for the New Standards?
Yes,
Wisconsin will be implementing the SMARTER Balanced Assessment protocol). The SMARTER
Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) is developing new tests that will measure
student progress toward career and college readiness.
Transitioning
to the CCSS: What Parents and Guardians Can Do Now
Parents
and guardians are crucial partners in laying the groundwork for a smooth
transition to the new standards. Parents and guardians can:
§ Learn
about the CCSS and how your school district is implementing.
§ Talk
to the principal about the school’s CCSS plan to learn what is different about these new standards and what remains the same for
children.
§ Attend
a board and/or community meeting to discuss district goals.
§ Meet
with your child’s teacher to discuss what your child will be learning over the
coming year and how classroom instruction aligns to the CCSS.
§ Play
an active role in your child’s education at home. If you notice your child is
struggling in a certain area, consult with his or her teacher to identify
strategies and resources that might be helpful.
§ Educate
other parents about the transition to the CCSS.
§ Explore
opportunities to become actively involved in the Common Core transition through
your state and local Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) or Parent Teacher
Organization (PTO).
