The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) provide a robust example of how critically important it is to have a dedicated team of leaders in a school working to implement change. The CCSS implementation will require substantial changes in planning and instruction from every person in the building. While principals play a critical role in leading a school and have a tremendous impact on student learning, leadership is broader than just the principal.
Many adults claim to be bad at math. I hope as math teachers incorporate Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics, more students will learn to appreciate – even love – math. Students who develop this drive will appreciate math as adults, and be well-positioned for tomorrow’s jobs. With adequate resources and opportunities for collaboration, teachers will rise to the challenge of supporting students with the new standards.
It used to be that only language arts teachers were expected to help their students learn to read, write, speak and listen. But Common Core State Standards (CCSS) have changed this. Now, all teachers are required to build their students’ literacy skills.
This is good news. It can bring us closer to making sure all students have the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills they need to be successful. But how many teachers actually know how to do this? And what do teachers say can help them?
As an experienced educator and a member of the Center for Teaching Quality’s Collaboratory, I was asked to share my top tips for principals facing Common Core implementation
1. Ask what staff know and need. Survey staff about their knowledge and comfort level with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and the implementation process, using a free online tool like Survey Monkey.
Teachers collaborating to bring the Common Core to life—sounds simple and sensible. But what does it look like in practice? Members of the Center for Teaching Quality’s Collaboratory are already knee-deep in implementation. I asked them to share some starting points for collaborating around the Common Core. Here’s their advice:
