Carol’s Summary:
Colorado, where I live, along with 32 other states have passed a “core standards†curriculum. I agree with the core standards, but I don’t believe that teaching the standards alone will bring global success for American students. Starting with core standards is admirable, but other aspects of learning, which are equally as important to academic development, include emotional and social development. Students need core standards tied to practical, real life applications. Teachers who captivate the hearts and minds of students with provocative, engaging questions will prepare students to challenge themselves and learn to love learning. Students who understand that learning goes beyond the classroom and seek interesting experiences as well as role models will come to class with much more to say and contribute more than students who expect to sit and learn core subjects in class and then go home and spend countless hours on the internet or watching TV.
American students will be competitive with their counterparts around the world when they have core standards as a foundation for learning, while expanding that foundation to include experiences which intimidate and challenge them. In short, we need to teach today’s students to make a difference in their own lives, their communities and the world as a whole. The core standards is a baby step in that direction.
Article: Board adopts national standards: Narrow, controversial vote adopts national education standards in Colo.
By: Peter Marcus
The Colorado Board of Education yesterday narrowly backed adopting controversial national education standards in language arts and math despite pleas from dozens of citizens not to back the proposal.
Critics say the board’s 4-3 decision to adopt the Common Core Standards will erode local control over education, setting the stage for a national curriculum. Critics also do not believe it was necessary for the board to back the national standards in an effort to better position the state to secure $175 million in federal education grant money.
To read full article: www.thedenverdailynews.com
