http://www.ccsso.org/en-ushttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Next_Issue_of_Chiefline_Scheduled_for_January_3.htmlNext Issue of Chiefline Scheduled for January 3Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Next_Issue_of_Chiefline_Scheduled_for_January_3.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/25_States_Commit_to_Advancing_Recommendations_to_Improve_Educator_Preparation__.htmlTwenty-five states have expressly committed to advance recommendations aimed at dramatically improving educator preparation and entry into the profession. The recommendations are outlined in a new CCSSO report, "Our Responsibility, Our Promise: Transforming Educator Preparation and Entry into the Profession."Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/25_States_Commit_to_Advancing_Recommendations_to_Improve_Educator_Preparation__.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_to_Examine_Teacher_Prep_Licensing.htmlTwenty-five state schools chiefs are vowing to take action to update their systems of teacher preparation and licensing, with an eye to ensuring teachers are ready the minute they take charge of their own classrooms.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_to_Examine_Teacher_Prep_Licensing.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Picks_16_Race_to_Top_District_Winners.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education announced on Dec. 11 that 16 winners -- including three charter school organizations -- will share $400 million in the Race To the Top district competition. Miami-Dade is the largest urban district on the list, having also recently won the prestigious Broad Prize this year.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Picks_16_Race_to_Top_District_Winners.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Social_Studies_Standards_Heading_to_Schools.htmlThe Nebraska State Board of Education recently adopted new standards for social studies instruction, but local school boards will have to adopt or strengthen and implement them. The standards determine what students should know at different grade levels in history, geography, civics, and economics.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Social_Studies_Standards_Heading_to_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Endorses_Statewide_Standards_for_Maine_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlThe Maine Educator Effectiveness Council, a task force, issued its first report on how Maine schools should evaluate teachers, though it said implementing a standardized evaluation system could take several years. State Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen said, "Of the education laws passed last session, this is one of the two most significant. We are extremely grateful for the work of the Maine Educator Effectiveness Council.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Endorses_Statewide_Standards_for_Maine_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Connecticut_Launches_Database_That_Tracks_Public_School_Performance.htmlOn Dec. 10, Connecticut Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor unveiled an online database that provides information on school performance for use by parents and other public school stakeholders. The database tracks the School Performance Index and the graduation rates of public schools. "The state's new school accountability and support framework enables more precise, more helpful snapshots of school performance.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Connecticut_Launches_Database_That_Tracks_Public_School_Performance.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Teachers_to_Be_Evaluated_on_Student_Achievement_Starting_in_2015.htmlOn Dec. 7, the Alaska State Board of Education approved a measure that includes student learning data in teacher evaluations. Beginning in the 2015-16 school year, student growth and performance criteria -- including at least one standardized test -- will make up 20 percent of teacher evaluations.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Teachers_to_Be_Evaluated_on_Student_Achievement_Starting_in_2015.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Compiles_Resources_to_Help_Address_the_Sandy_Hook_Elementary_School_Shooting_With_Students_and_Parents.htmlOn behalf of the nation’s state school chiefs, CCSSO extends its deepest condolences to the community of Newtown, Connecticut in the wake of the unspeakable tragedy that took the lives of 20 students and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary on Friday, December 14.Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Compiles_Resources_to_Help_Address_the_Sandy_Hook_Elementary_School_Shooting_With_Students_and_Parents.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Briefing_Transforming_Educator_Preparation_and_Entry_into_the_Profession.htmlPlease join the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), on Monday, December 17, 10:00 AM ET, for a briefing on the CCSSO Task Force Report Our Responsibility, Our Promise: Transforming Educator Preparation and Entry into the Profession.Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Briefing_Transforming_Educator_Preparation_and_Entry_into_the_Profession.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Rebecca_Mieliwocki_Addresses_Chief_State_School_Officers.htmlRebecca Mieliwocki, the 2012 National Teacher of the Year, spoke to state education leaders at the Council of Chief State School Officers Annual Policy Forum, November 16th, 2012, in Savannah, Georgia. In her speech, Mieliwocki focuses on developing and supporting outstanding educators and what she describes as the “quiet hurricane” of passionate, effective teachers.Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Rebecca_Mieliwocki_Addresses_Chief_State_School_Officers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Report_on_Educator_Preparation_and_Entry_into_the_Profession.htmlCCSSO will host a briefing on Monday, December 17, 10:00 AM ET, on the CCSSO Task Force Report Our Responsibility, Our Promise: Transforming Educator Preparation and Entry into the Profession.Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Report_on_Educator_Preparation_and_Entry_into_the_Profession.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_States_to_Increase_Class_Time_in_Some_Schools.htmlOn Dec. 3, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Tennessee announced they could add at least 300 hours of learning time to the calendar in some schools beginning in 2013. The move is part of a three-year pilot program to boost student achievement and make U.S. schools more competitive on a global level.Mon, 03 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_States_to_Increase_Class_Time_in_Some_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Race_to_Top_Early-Learning_Grants_Announced_for_Five_More_States.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education has awarded another round of early-childhood education grants as part of the Race to the Top program, following an initial distribution of $500 million to nine states. This time around, $133 million in grants will be given to five states: Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wisconsin.Thu, 06 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Race_to_Top_Early-Learning_Grants_Announced_for_Five_More_States.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/17_NY_Districts_Get_Virtual_Learning_Grants.htmlThe New York Education Department says $17.3 million in federal Race to the Top Funds will be distributed to 17 school districts or consortia of districts as part of the state's Virtual Advanced Placement Program. The program aims to provide high school students with better access to advanced placement (AP) courses.Sat, 01 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/17_NY_Districts_Get_Virtual_Learning_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montgomery_and_Poultney_Elementary_Schools_Receive_Title_I_Reward_Grants.htmlVermont Education Commissioner Armando Vilaseca says Montgomery and Poultney Elementary Schools achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) on the New England Comprehensive Assessment System (NECAP) for two consecutive years and academic gains within the subpopulation of students in poverty. The state's first Title I Reward Schools will each receive grants totaling $10,000.Tue, 04 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montgomery_and_Poultney_Elementary_Schools_Receive_Title_I_Reward_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Standards_Early_Results_From_Kentucky_Are_In.htmlKentucky was the first state to sign on to the Common Core State Standards for reading and math in 2010. The standards were implemented in the classroom the same year, and tests aligned with the standards were rolled out in the 2011-12 school year. A report issued in November shows an increase in students prepared for college or careers to 38 percent for the class of 2011 and 47 percent for the class of 2012, despite a decrease in proficiency scores in reading and math.Tue, 04 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Standards_Early_Results_From_Kentucky_Are_In.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Highlights_Area_Schools_in_New_Rating_System.htmlConnecticut Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor announced that 46 schools achieved the highest overall performance in the state under a new rating system. The new classifications were based on scores from the 2011-12 Connecticut Mastery Test for elementary and middle schools and the Connecticut Academic Performance Test given in high school. Within the schools of distinction were schools noted for excellence among Black and Hispanic students, students with disabilities, low-income students, and English language learners.Fri, 30 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Highlights_Area_Schools_in_New_Rating_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/EMUHSD_to_Implement_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says the state's Common Core State Standards (CCSS) Systems Implementation Plan will "take our state's already world-class standards to a new level, emphasizing a deep understanding of English language arts and mathematics to ensure our students complete high school, ready to thrive in college and careers." The plan, which will be implemented by the 2014-15 school year, will be rolled out in three phases.Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/EMUHSD_to_Implement_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/61_Finalists_Announced_for_Race_to_the_Top_District_Competition_.htmlThe Department of Education announced that 61 applications have been selected as finalists for the $400 million Race to the Top-District (RTT-D) competition.Tue, 04 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/61_Finalists_Announced_for_Race_to_the_Top_District_Competition_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Host_Webinar_on_Sample_Assessment_Items_from_PARCC_and_Smarter_Balanced.htmlOn December 19, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. ET, CCSSO will be hosting a webinar on the recently released Partnership for Readiness for College and Career (PARCC) and Smarter Balanced sample assessment items in mathematics with middle school mathematics teacher Jim Mamer.Tue, 04 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Host_Webinar_on_Sample_Assessment_Items_from_PARCC_and_Smarter_Balanced.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ed_Dept_Emphasizes_Graduation-Rate_Accountability_in_Letter_to_States.htmlU.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan has issued a "Dear Colleague" letter to chief state school officers reinforcing that the requirement of calculating high school completions still applies even under No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waivers. Graduation-rate accountability must be a significant part of accountability systems, and they must be calculated in the same way as outlined in 2008 regulations.Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ed_Dept_Emphasizes_Graduation-Rate_Accountability_in_Letter_to_States.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Names_Teacher_Ambassadors_to_Share_Best_Practices_Statewide.htmlAs part of its new Reward Schools Ambassador Program, the Tennessee Department of Education has selected 15 teachers from 2012 Reward Schools -- or those in the top 10 percent with regard to performance and progress -- to share best practices with neighboring schools in their region in an effort to bolster student achievement and close achievement gaps. These teachers all earned the top score of 5 on the state's teacher evaluations, were nominated by their schools for the year-long paid positions, and were chosen through a competitive application and interview process.Mon, 26 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Names_Teacher_Ambassadors_to_Share_Best_Practices_Statewide.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NJ_Charter_School_Students_Learn_More_Than_Their_Peers_Says_New_Report.htmlAccording to a new Stanford University Center for Research on Education Outcomes (CREDO) study, charter school students made larger learning gains overall than their peers in traditional schools on state tests from 2007-2011. More than 33 percent of charters demonstrated higher achievement levels than other public schools in their districts. However, the report also says charter school performance is almost as varied as that of traditional public schools.Thu, 29 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NJ_Charter_School_Students_Learn_More_Than_Their_Peers_Says_New_Report.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_NH_State_Board_of_Education_Votes_Unanimously_to_Endorse_the_Institutions_of_Higher_Education_(IHE)_Network_Position_Statement.htmlThe New Hampshire State Board of Education (SBE) voted unanimously on Nov. 21 to endorse the NH Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) Network position statement. The paper presented to the SBE says the IHE Network "stands ready to work with the Department of Education, the legislature, and the professional educational organizations throughout our state to build a modern workforce of educators, leaders, and scholars strongly committed to the highest aspirations of our profession and our communities."Wed, 21 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_NH_State_Board_of_Education_Votes_Unanimously_to_Endorse_the_Institutions_of_Higher_Education_(IHE)_Network_Position_Statement.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Sablan_Pushes_for_Reform_in_CNMIs_Education_System.htmlNorthern Marianas Islands Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan, Ed.D, would like to see one system govern the education programs on Rota, Saipan, and Tinian. Currently, the CNMI Public School System handles the preschool-12th grade educational program, while the post-secondary program is administered by the Northern Marianas College (NMC). "We need to reform the structure of education in the CNMI so it becomes more efficient and more effective and that it will meet the needs of the Commonwealth. Make it a structure that would be preschool all the way to the 16th program," she says.Mon, 26 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Sablan_Pushes_for_Reform_in_CNMIs_Education_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Pre-K_Plan_to_Get_Run_Through.htmlLouisiana Superintendent John White says the state's prekindergarten overhaul will be tested for at least one year before decisions are made on how schools and centers are graded. "Until we see how those assessments work we will not develop an accountability measure," he says. State officials will create early learning performance guidelines for those up to age three and academic standards for those between ages three and four.Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Pre-K_Plan_to_Get_Run_Through.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Race_to_the_Top_Report_Shows_Improvement_in_Island_Schools.htmlThe Hawaii Department of Education released its two-year Race to the Top report on Nov. 28, indicating that significant progress has been made toward the state's Race to the Top goals. In particular, the report cites substantial gains in reading and math among the state's fourth- and eighth-graders on the 2011 National Assessment of Educational Progress.Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Race_to_the_Top_Report_Shows_Improvement_in_Island_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Schools_Students_Show_Improvement_on_State_Tests.htmlThe Nebraska Education Department has released a report on public schools and student progress, indicating that three of four school districts graduated 90 percent or more of their high school students. More than 50 school districts graduated all of their seniors, with 88 percent of high school seniors graduating across the state, up from 86 percent last year. Most school districts demonstrated improvement and growth under the new accountability system.Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Schools_Students_Show_Improvement_on_State_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisianas_Educators_Enter_a_New_World_With_Evaluations_and_Their_Consequences.htmlBeginning this year, Louisiana teachers will be evaluated and ranked on an annual basis, and eventually, teachers considered ineffective for two years in a row will lose their jobs. About 50 percent of the evaluations will hinge on "value-added modeling," using test scores to measure student progress, with the other half based on classroom observations by principals and other administrators.Sun, 18 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisianas_Educators_Enter_a_New_World_With_Evaluations_and_Their_Consequences.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PA_Awarded_65_Million_Grant_to_Help_Students_With_Disabilities_Learn.htmlPennsylvania educators who provide special education services to students with disabilities will receive professional development through a $6.5 million, five-year federal grant awarded to the State Department of Education.Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PA_Awarded_65_Million_Grant_to_Help_Students_With_Disabilities_Learn.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guam_DOE_Gets_206M_Federal_Grant_to_Support_Student_Achievement.htmlGuam Education Superintendent Jon Fernandez announced that his department was awarded a $20.6 million grant by the U.S. Department of Education from the Title V, Part A Consolidated Grants program. The island plans to use the money to improve student achievement through local reform efforts that support statewide education reforms; implement promising educational reform programs and school improvement programs based on scientific research; provide a continuing source of innovative and educational improvement; implement programs meeting the educational needs of all students, including at-risk youth; and implement education programs to improve school, student, and teacher performance.Wed, 21 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guam_DOE_Gets_206M_Federal_Grant_to_Support_Student_Achievement.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Welcome_Mission_Incentive.htmlAbout 28 educators across Delaware received a $10,000 bonus under the state's Talent Cooperative program that identified teachers, assistant principals, and school leaders who helped raise student test scores. The bonuses were offered to teachers who agreed to remain at the same school for at least two years.Sat, 24 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Welcome_Mission_Incentive.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Releases_School-Accountability_Reports.htmlSchool accountability reports for 2012 have been issued by the Arkansas Department of Education, the first under a new system in which student achievement, student growth, and high-school graduation rates are used to gauge performance, and individualized targets apply only to a specific school and its students. Under the old system, schools competed against others in their district and those across the state.Mon, 19 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Releases_School-Accountability_Reports.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Annual_Policy_Forum_Focuses_on_Leadership_Educator_Evaluation.htmlChiefs and their key staff met last week in Savannah, GA for CCSSO’s Annual Policy Forum. Discussion topics focused on the importance of leadership in policy areas such as educator preparation and evaluation, ESEA reauthorization and school choice. Chiefs heard from panels of colleagues, experts and practitioners. Speakers included Rick Hess of the American Enterprise Institute, and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Annual_Policy_Forum_Focuses_on_Leadership_Educator_Evaluation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_and_ETS_Partner_to_Assess_the_Knowledge_and_Skills_of_GA_Educators.htmlThe Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) has selected the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to develop and administer the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators® (GACE®) to assess the knowledge and skills of prospective Georgia public school educators.Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_and_ETS_Partner_to_Assess_the_Knowledge_and_Skills_of_GA_Educators.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Evers_Proposes_Increase_in_Aid_to_Wis_Schools.htmlWisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Evers recently proposed a $615 million increase -- an increase of 2.4 percent in 2013 and a 5.5 percent increase for 2014 -- for public schools over the next two years by redirecting money from the popular school levy tax credit program. Nearly $47 million would be used to meet specific needs of schools, including raising graduation rates and increasing funds for a high percentage of non-English speaking students.Mon, 12 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Evers_Proposes_Increase_in_Aid_to_Wis_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Recommendations_for_Tennessee_School_Voucher_Program_Still_Debatable_Among_Task_Force.htmlFollowing the final task force meeting, Tennessee Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman said the recommendations will provide Gov. Bill Haslam with options for a school voucher program. "There are some areas where there is a pretty broad range of views on how to do it," he said. The group agreed that a voucher program should be limited to low-income students, and that private schools should be screened for eligibility and held accountable if they participate in the program.Tue, 13 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Recommendations_for_Tennessee_School_Voucher_Program_Still_Debatable_Among_Task_Force.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Gains_Made_in_South_Carolina_Graduation_Rates_State_Report_Card_Ratings.htmlThe South Carolina Department of Education released data that shows more students graduated on time in 2012 than in 2011, with the rate increasing from 73.6 percent to 74.9 percent. The graduation rates of black, Hispanic, and subsidized school-meal students are at their highest levels since the department began releasing subgroup performance data in 2004. The graduation rate gap between white and black students declined by 0.2 percent in 2012, while the gap with Hispanic students declined 5.1 percent since 2004.Tue, 13 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Gains_Made_in_South_Carolina_Graduation_Rates_State_Report_Card_Ratings.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Than_500_School_Districts_Have_Submitted_Evaluation_Plans.htmlNew York State Education Commissioner John King, Jr., reports that 500 of 700 school districts across the state have submitted plans for the new state-mandated teacher evaluations. School districts have until Jan. 17, 2013, to submit their plans, and without those plans, they will forfeit a scheduled increase in state aid. About 200 school districts have approved plans.Thu, 15 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Than_500_School_Districts_Have_Submitted_Evaluation_Plans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Connecting_Business_Education_is_Key_to_New_Hampshires_Future_Panelists_Say.htmlAt a recent New Hampshire Scholars program event, panelists, including New Hampshire Education Commissioner Virginia Barry, discussed how to build better partnerships between businesses and schools and to honor those already making progress toward that goal. Leaders hope for 100 percent participation in the program as 60 of the state's 80 high schools already take part to ensure students have the skills the business community needs.Sun, 11 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Connecting_Business_Education_is_Key_to_New_Hampshires_Future_Panelists_Say.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Students_Taking_More_Foreign_Language_World_History_Classes.htmlIn October, the Missouri State Board of Education adopted a resolution in support of International Education Week to encourage schools to provide students with the knowledge they would need to succeed in an increasingly global society and its globally competitive economy. Missouri Education Commissioner Chris L. Nicastro said, "The ability to communicate effectively with people from other countries and develop a deeper understanding of other cultures has never been more important."Sat, 10 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Students_Taking_More_Foreign_Language_World_History_Classes.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Face_Tougher_Assessments.htmlIn Louisiana, tougher questions for English, math, science, and social studies on annual assessments may not count toward this year's results, but they will count for nearly 10 percent of the results in the 2013-14 school year and all answers will count in the 2014-15 school year. State Superintendent of Education John White said the tests are part of the state's move toward a more rigorous curriculum aimed at improving student achievement.Thu, 15 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Face_Tougher_Assessments.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Says_Iowa_Students_Should_Be_Evaluated_Three_Times_Yearly.htmlIowa Education Director Jason Glass released a 20-page report that, among other things, recommended the implementation of a Response to Intervention program to assess students three times per year and provide struggling students with additional small group or one-on-one instruction. Glass says the program would have "quality controls as to what those assessments look like," but each school can choose its own assessments. The goal of the program is to reduce the achievement gap between different socioeconomic, racial, and disability groups.Tue, 13 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Says_Iowa_Students_Should_Be_Evaluated_Three_Times_Yearly.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/20_Districts_Nonprofits_Set_to_Share_150_Million_in_New_i3_Awards.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education has named 20 school districts and nonprofits as winners of the third round of the Investing in Innovation (i3) grant competition. A total of $150 million was awarded, with eight "validation" awards up to $15 million and 12 "development" awards up to $3 million.Thu, 08 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/20_Districts_Nonprofits_Set_to_Share_150_Million_in_New_i3_Awards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Education_Chief_Shares_His_Vision.htmlIn a recent speech to educators, Oregon Chief Education Officer Rudy Crew stressed that confidence in the classroom and building relationships with students are keys to success. "I want the model in Oregon classrooms to focus on confidence. Confidence plus effort," he said. "When they say they can't do algebra or that they don't like math, you tell them you believe they can."Thu, 01 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Education_Chief_Shares_His_Vision.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Controversial_Math_Standards_Gain_Ambitious_Support.htmlA new Michigan State University study published in Educational Researcher supports the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics (CCSSM), which will be implemented in 46 states in 2014. Researchers William Schmidt and Richard Houang report that states with previous standards most similar to CCSSM scored better on national math tests in 2009.Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Controversial_Math_Standards_Gain_Ambitious_Support.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Rules_Set_Testing_Standard_for_Iowa_Teachers.htmlThe Iowa State Board of Education has approved new rules that will require prospective teachers -- beginning with those graduating in spring 2013 -- to score in the 25th percentile on two national tests in order to obtain their teaching certificates. Only elementary school teachers are presently required to take two exams, but the new rules expand the requirement to all teachers.Wed, 07 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Rules_Set_Testing_Standard_for_Iowa_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DOE_Gets_Three-Year_Grant_for_Common_Core.htmlGuam Public School System Superintendent Jon Fernandez says the agency has been given a three-year grant that will enable it to promote the Common Core standards at the school level. The $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education will support administrator and teacher leadership with regard to Common Core implementation, and Fernandez says the funds will enable the agency to overcome local financial challenges and focus on outcomes.Mon, 05 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DOE_Gets_Three-Year_Grant_for_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Barge_Wants_Georgia_to_Invest_in_Teachers.htmlGeorgia Superintendent of Schools John Barge has praised the state for helping improve student test scores over the past year. Barge said the state has partnered with the Black Caucus to set up educational summits throughout the state to share the positive news.Fri, 02 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Barge_Wants_Georgia_to_Invest_in_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum_in_Savannah_GA.htmlThe CCSSO Annual Policy Forum will be held in Savannah, Georgia, November 15-17.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum_in_Savannah_GA.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Announces_New_Standards_for_Learning_English.htmlThe California State Board of Education has adopted new English Language Development Standards for English learners that are aligned with the Common Core State Standards. The standards, created by the California Department of Education, aim to help English learners develop important knowledge and skills.Wed, 07 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Announces_New_Standards_for_Learning_English.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DQC_Releases_Data_for_Action_2012_Results.htmlDQC will release the results from the eigth annual Data for Action analysis on November 15, 2012. Data for Action is an analysis of the states' progress implementing the 10 State Actions to Ensure Effective Data Use.Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DQC_Releases_Data_for_Action_2012_Results.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/WV_Earns_A-_in_Survey_Studying_Governments_Use_of_Technology.htmlAccording to the 2012 Digital States Survey, West Virginia and five other states earned top honors in technology practices of state governments, along with Michigan and Utah. West Virginia was highlighted for its statewide telecom network for higher education and state agencies; school district savings on wiring and equipment; efficiency in e-rate mandated filtering of K-12 content; a statewide K-12 data system for scheduling, teacher evaluation, payroll, and other functions; and the quality of its online courses.Sat, 27 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/WV_Earns_A-_in_Survey_Studying_Governments_Use_of_Technology.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Approves_Math_Plan.htmlThe Virginia Board of Education unanimously approved a new annual measurable objectives for math proposed by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia I. Wright. The new standards, part of the state's waiver application from the federal No Child Left Behind regulations, aim to close achievement gaps in math scores between white students and black and Hispanic students, as well as those with learning disabilities.Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Approves_Math_Plan.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/John_White_Outlines_Plans_for_Louisianas_Pre-K_Programs.htmlOn Oct. 30, Louisiana Superintendent of Education John White outlined a new accountability system for the state's publicly funded pre-K programs that will be rolled out over the next three years to ensure that tax dollars are used by the programs. ACT 3 would ensure that existing dollars go further in helping prepare students for kindergarten, bringing all programs into one network, creating a system to assess their quality, and providing information to parents.Tue, 30 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/John_White_Outlines_Plans_for_Louisianas_Pre-K_Programs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Effort_Lets_Districts_Be_More_Like_Charter_Schools.htmlA new education initiative in Kentucky to be launched in the 2013-14 school year will let school districts apply for permission to operate more like charter schools. The move would free school districts from certain laws and regulations and give them more flexibility with curriculum, instruction, funding, and school scheduling, but in return, they would have to bolster student performance.Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Effort_Lets_Districts_Be_More_Like_Charter_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/60_Percent_of_Indiana_Schools_Get_A_or_B_Grades.htmlWith about 60 percent of Indiana public and private schools earning A's or B's for student progress during the 2011-12 academic year under the new grading system, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett says, "This is a very good day for Indiana schools." No schools were marked for takeover this year, but 150 schools did receive failing grades that could signal a future takeover by the state unless grades are improved.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/60_Percent_of_Indiana_Schools_Get_A_or_B_Grades.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tough_New_Common_Core_Tests_Designed_to_Better_Prepare_Students.htmlIllinois education officials say they hope the adoption of the so-called Common Core standards will better prepare students for college and careers.Officials say the new standards are tougher than the old ones, and thus the tests that measure the Common Core's effectiveness also will be more difficult, requiring students to prove how they reached an answer.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tough_New_Common_Core_Tests_Designed_to_Better_Prepare_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Fernandez_Orders_Steps_to_Cut_Costs.htmlGuam Department of Education Superintendent Jon Fernandez has given administrators five recommendations that target "unnecessary costs" for 2013 spending. He said that the current freeze on pay raises will stay in place; there will be no overtime except in emergencies; color copying will be scrapped and employees will work paper-free when possible; the superintendent will scrutinize requests to hire non-teaching positions; and schools must reduce their energy usageFri, 26 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Fernandez_Orders_Steps_to_Cut_Costs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Closing_for_the_2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum.htmlThis is the last week to register for the CCSSO Annual Policy Forum in Savannah, Georgia, November 15-17.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Closing_for_the_2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_Webinar_featuring_2012_National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Rebecca_Mieliwocki.htmlCCSSO will be hosting a webinar with 2012 National Teacher of the Year Rebecca Mieliwocki on the recently released Partnership for Readiness for College and Career (PARCC) and Smarter Balanced sample assessment items in English language arts.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_Webinar_featuring_2012_National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Rebecca_Mieliwocki.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/District_Race_to_Top_Will_Consider_Emotional_Behavioral_Sciences.htmlAs part of the $400 million district Race to the Top competition, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) will give applications featuring plans to collaborate with public and private partners to better meet the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students up to 10 bonus points.Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/District_Race_to_Top_Will_Consider_Emotional_Behavioral_Sciences.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Translating_the_Common_Core_for_Dual-Language_Classrooms.htmlImplementing the new common standards into classrooms requires dual-language educators to adjust their instructional strategies to teach the more rigorous common standards in language arts and mathematics in a second language in addition to English.Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Translating_the_Common_Core_for_Dual-Language_Classrooms.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginias_On-Time_Graduation_Rate_for_Class_of_2012_Rises_to_88_Percent_Dropout_Rate_Falls.htmlThe Virginia Department of Education says the on-time graduation rate for the Class of 2012 was 88 percent, up more than one percentage point from the previous class and more than 7 percent since the department began reporting on-time graduation rates in 2008.Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginias_On-Time_Graduation_Rate_for_Class_of_2012_Rises_to_88_Percent_Dropout_Rate_Falls.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Rewards_Good_Schools_With_Cash.htmlNew Mexico schools receiving "A" letter grades and those that have improved grades will receive a portion of the $1.7 million the state has set aside as cash rewards, with about 88 schools from 41 districts receiving some of the money.Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Rewards_Good_Schools_With_Cash.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Common_Core_Standards_to_Reshape_Teaching.htmlThe implementation of the Common Core State Standards in Kansas by 2014 has teachers scrambling to prepare for educational changes in reading and math. Emily Seaman, a fourth-grade teacher at Hillcrest School, is just one of several teachers who have engaged in special training sessions on the new standards; teachers at all grade levels and throughout the school districts are receiving training through weekly district collaborations.Sun, 21 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Common_Core_Standards_to_Reshape_Teaching.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DC_Considers_Bill_to_Benefit_Military_Children.htmlWashington, D.C., lawmakers are considering legislation that would enable the District to join the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission to ensure that children of active-duty military officers are afforded smooth transitions when they move from state to state and school to school.Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DC_Considers_Bill_to_Benefit_Military_Children.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Budget_Proposal_Envisions_More_Arts_Education_in_Alabama_Schools.htmlAlabama Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice proposed an initial budget that includes $5 million in "new state funding" for arts education. If the State Board of Education and the Alabama Legislature approve the budget, the funding will be used to expand or start arts programs in Alabama public schools.Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Budget_Proposal_Envisions_More_Arts_Education_in_Alabama_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Let’s_Move_WV_“Kinected”_Schools.htmlThe West Virginia Department of Education’s (WVDE) Office of Healthy Schools and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources’ Office of Healthy Lifestyles have teamed up with Microsoft to get kids moving. The group is gaming on the Xbox helping students increase their physical activity.Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Let’s_Move_WV_“Kinected”_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Endorses_Career_Readiness_Definition_Encompassing_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlA broad coalition of national education, business, philanthropic and policy groups, including CCSSO, has come together to create a clear, unified and focused vision for what it means to be career ready. The coalition known as the Career Readiness Partner Council, issued a statement on October 18, “Building Blocks For Change: What it Means to be Career Ready,” making clear that career readiness is a process of connecting “education and employment to achieve a fulfilling, financially-secure and successful career.”Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Endorses_Career_Readiness_Definition_Encompassing_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NGLC_Announces_54_Million_in_Grants_Supporting_13_Breakthrough_Models_for_College_Readiness_and_Completion.htmlNext Generation Learning Challenges (NGLC), an initiative dedicated to improving college readiness and completion, has announced grants totaling $5.4 million for 13 new models of personalized, blended learning at the secondary and postsecondary levels.Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NGLC_Announces_54_Million_in_Grants_Supporting_13_Breakthrough_Models_for_College_Readiness_and_Completion.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_Creates_Foundation_to_Supplement_Education_Spending.htmlKentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday has filed paperwork with the Secretary of State's office to establish the Fund for Transforming Education in Kentucky. The foundation would be separate from the State Department of Education and would seek grants and funding outside of state, federal, and local sources to help school districts.Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_Creates_Foundation_to_Supplement_Education_Spending.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Feds_Give_Idaho_Schools_a_Waiver_on_No_Child_Left_Behind.htmlIdaho has been granted a waiver from the No Child Left Behind law by the U.S. Department of Education, which also approved the state's new accountability system that uses academic growth and other measures to assess student achievement. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna believes the new system will better gauge student achievement and better identify schools performing well and those that are struggling.Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Feds_Give_Idaho_Schools_a_Waiver_on_No_Child_Left_Behind.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Officials_Defend_Racial_and_Ethnic_Learning_Goals.htmlEducation officials in Florida are standing behind the new strategic plan approved earlier this month by the State Board of Education, which sets different goals for reading and math achievement based on race and ethnicity. The goals are required as part of Florida's No Child Left Behind waiver from the federal government, and the state must halve its achievement gap for all students by 2018.Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Officials_Defend_Racial_and_Ethnic_Learning_Goals.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Malloy_Federal_Grants_Awarded_to_Support_Extended_Learning_in_High-Need_Schools.htmlConnecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy says five-year grants totaling more than $2.5 million have been awarded to 14 school districts and organizations across the state as part of the U.S. Department of Education's 21st Century Community Learning Center initiative. The grants must be used to provide literacy and educational development activities -- such as tutoring and mentoring, homework help, academic enrichment, community service opportunities, and music, arts, sports, health, and cultural activities -- to students at high-need schools.Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Malloy_Federal_Grants_Awarded_to_Support_Extended_Learning_in_High-Need_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Open_for_2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum.htmlRegistration is open for CCSSO’s upcoming Annual Policy Forum in Savannah, Georgia, November 15-17, 2012.Tue, 16 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Open_for_2012_CCSSO_Annual_Policy_Forum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Takes_Part_in_Two_Winning_Proposals_for_US_ED_TA_Centers.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education recently announced the awards for the five-year Comprehensive Centers program. The Comprehensive Centers program is composed of a two-tiered approach to providing technical assistance to states. Fifteen regional comprehensive centers (RCCs) provide support to directly to their constituent states while seven national content centers specialize in building state capacity and providing technical assistance to RCCs and statesTue, 16 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Takes_Part_in_Two_Winning_Proposals_for_US_ED_TA_Centers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guide_Tying_Common_Core_and_English-Proficiency.htmlThe Council of Chief State School Officers has issued a framework to guide states in revising English-language-proficiency standards for English-language-learners. "What the framework writers have done is take the common core and the Next Generation Science Standards and identified the language demands in each of those content standards and described them," says Stanford University education professor Kenji Hakuta, who advised the framework developers.Tue, 09 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guide_Tying_Common_Core_and_English-Proficiency.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Dept_at_Work_on_Pre-K_Grading_Plans.htmlLouisiana Superintendent John White is working on a common assessment and grading system for the state's publicly funded pre-kindergarten and early childhood education programs in accordance with a new law. White hopes to release a "conceptual framework" for public comment by the end of the month and plans to make recommendations to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in December.Wed, 10 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Dept_at_Work_on_Pre-K_Grading_Plans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Schools_Incorporate_New_Standards_Into_Instruction.htmlSchools districts in Illinois are working to implement the Common Core State Standards, with the State Board of Education providing professional development assistance to educators. Glenn Grieshaber, superintendent of River Grove School District 85.5, says the district will send some teachers out for training, and these teachers will share what they learned with other educators.Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Schools_Incorporate_New_Standards_Into_Instruction.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Grants_Expand_Military_Childrens_Educational_Opportunities.htmlDepartment of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) Director Marilee Fitzgerald says that because students of military parents must make physical and emotional adjustments to as many as eight schools between kindergarten and high school, recipients of the 2012 DODEA grants must strive to create programs that will benefit all military students. "That is what this grant program is about. It is about extending those opportunities to help our children continue their academic careers so they are not disrupted," she says.Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Grants_Expand_Military_Childrens_Educational_Opportunities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Canton_Surrounding_School_Districts_Preparing_for_New_Standards_Tests.htmlMany school districts in Connecticut are using professional development time to revise their curriculum and prepare teachers for the implementation of the Common Core State Standards in 2014. According to the Connecticut Department of Education, 20 percent of the Common Core standards for English are not included in the state's existing standards, and 12 percent are only generally related. For math, 20 percent are new, but 68 percent match the state's math standards.Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Canton_Surrounding_School_Districts_Preparing_for_New_Standards_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Accountability_New_School_Quality_Snapshot_for_Parents.htmlThe California Department of Education has rolled out new School Quality Snapshots for each of the state's 10,000 public schools. These two-page documents provide information on the school's test scores, class sizes, fitness levels, and graduation rates, as well as a five-year overview of the school's performance on key indicators and state- and district-level data.Wed, 10 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Accountability_New_School_Quality_Snapshot_for_Parents.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Public_Schools_Glass_Half_Full_or_Half_Empty.htmlAlthough Gallup's Confidence in Institutions survey for 2012 shows a decrease in respondents placing "a great deal" or "quite a lot" of confidence in public K-12 education to 29 percent, down 29 percentage points from 1973, MetaMetrics President and co-founder Malbert Smith III, director of professional development Jason Turner, and research engineer Steve Lattanzio say more should be done to highlight successes in the educational system.Wed, 10 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Public_Schools_Glass_Half_Full_or_Half_Empty.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCC_and_Smarter_Balanced_Sample_Items_and_Tasks_Available_Online.htmlPARCC and Smarter Balanced have both announced that they have sample assessment items and tasks available online, providing educators, parents, and students an initial look at the types of items that will appear on next-generation assessments.Tue, 09 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCC_and_Smarter_Balanced_Sample_Items_and_Tasks_Available_Online.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_ED_Unveils_290_Million_in_Performance-Pay_Grants.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education recently announced its fourth round of Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF) grants, a program that backs differentiated compensation systems. The program has expanded to include career ladders, where teachers not only get pay bumps but are given additional professional responsibilities; grantees now must secure more support from teachers' unions and others up front, rather than during a planning year; and more attention is paid to the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_ED_Unveils_290_Million_in_Performance-Pay_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/24_Million_in_Grants_Awarded_to_22_States_to_Improve_Training_Systems_to_Help_Children_With_Disabilities.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education announced on Oct. 1 that 22 states -- Alabama, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin -- will receive $24 million in grants to improve personnel training systems to help children with disabilities.Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/24_Million_in_Grants_Awarded_to_22_States_to_Improve_Training_Systems_to_Help_Children_With_Disabilities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SD_Official_Touts_Education_Proposal.htmlSouth Dakota Education Secretary Melody Schopp says that voters will get a say in education reform on Nov. 6 when they decide whether Referred Law 16 should be implemented. The law will enable local school districts to create their own programs to reward teachers, though schools can opt out of the merit-based program; but the program will provide annual state-funded merit bonuses to a district's full-time certified teachers.Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SD_Official_Touts_Education_Proposal.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SC_Students_Improve_on_End-of-Course_Assessments.htmlSouth Carolina students demonstrated improvement on test scores and passage rates this year in most courses, according to data released from the South Carolina Department of Education. The largest improvements were recorded in biology, English, and U.S. history and the Constitution. State Superintendent of Education Mick Zais says, "The credit for student achievement gains belongs to hard working students, parents, and teachers. Measuring student achievement is an important tool to improving instructional practices."Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SC_Students_Improve_on_End-of-Course_Assessments.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/RI_Launches_New_System_for_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlRhode Island continues to develop and implement an intensive teacher evaluation system that uses student learning as a performance metric for teacher effectiveness. The evaluation system will be used for the first time this year, and over the summer, teachers worked with school principals to create personal student learning objectives to help them track student progress throughout the year. The state will use the students' progress on those objectives to determine teacher effectiveness.Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/RI_Launches_New_System_for_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lawmaker_Proposes_Parent_Trigger_Law_For_Low_Performing_OK_Schools.htmlLike seven states that have parent triggers on the books, Oklahoma State Senator David Holt has proposed legislation to allow parents to drive change in low performing schools. If 51 percent of parents sign a petition, changes could be made to staffing or turning a school into a charter, among other things.Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lawmaker_Proposes_Parent_Trigger_Law_For_Low_Performing_OK_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Principals_Volunteer_for_Evaluation_Pilot.htmlIn Maryland, the General Assembly paved the way for the state to create new teacher and principal evaluation systems as part of the federal Race to the Top grant program. Now, 129 Howard County teachers and 23 principals will participate in a pilot evaluation, even though the new evaluation system does not take effect until 2013. The evaluation systems must ensure that student growth is used as a measure in teacher evaluations, with about 50 percent of a teacher's evaluation based on student growth.Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Principals_Volunteer_for_Evaluation_Pilot.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Superintendent_Touts_New_Curriculum_in_Natchitoches.htmlLouisiana State Superintendent of Education John White visited sixth- and seventh-grade math classes at Natchitoches Magnet School, and said that just adding "I can" motivates students, and "good teachers are motivators also. It's a hard thing to do but at the same time it's critical." White said that under Louisiana Believes students will be assessed throughout the year, providing more opportunity for a good test day, and the tests will be better reflections of the year's subject matter and the students' critical thinking ability.Wed, 03 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Superintendent_Touts_New_Curriculum_in_Natchitoches.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Guidance_on_Aligning_English_Language_Proficiency_Standards_with_CCSS.htmlCCSSO has created a resource to provide guidance to states on aligning English Language Proficiency standards with the Common Core State Standards and the forthcoming Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The English Language Proficiency Development (ELPD) Framework outlines the underlying English language practices found in the CCSS and the NGSS, communicates to ELL stakeholders the language that all ELLs must acquire in order to successfully engage the CCSS and NGSS.Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Guidance_on_Aligning_English_Language_Proficiency_Standards_with_CCSS.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conrad_Foundation_Announces_Spirit_of_Innovation_Challenge.htmlThe Conrad Foundation has announced its Spirit of Innovation Challenge, which invites high school students and their coaches to work as a team and develop innovative products and services to help solve global and local problems while supporting global sustainability.Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conrad_Foundation_Announces_Spirit_of_Innovation_Challenge.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Cheating_Scandals_Inevitable_as_States_Cant_Ensure_Test_Integrity.htmlThe Atlanta Journal-Constitution found that cheating was rampant across 44 Atlanta schools before the state stepped in, and unless state oversight is more consistent, even in other states, experts say that the integrity of standardized tests will be called into question. The investigation says that cheating scandals are inevitable if there is poor oversight, and this problem could undermine national education policy built on test scores, which states and local districts hope to use as part of school and teacher evaluations.Sun, 30 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Cheating_Scandals_Inevitable_as_States_Cant_Ensure_Test_Integrity.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Chief_Orders_1_in_3_Oregon_Districts_to_Set_Higher_Goals_on_Achievement_Compacts.htmlFor the first time this year, Oregon's school districts must set goals in "achievement compacts" as part of Gov. John Kitzhaber's plan to bolster education. Oregon Chief Education Officer Rudy Crew has given 69 of the state's school districts until Oct. 15 to rewrite their goals to boost high school graduation rates and third grade reading and math scores by at least one percentage point this school year.Sat, 22 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Chief_Orders_1_in_3_Oregon_Districts_to_Set_Higher_Goals_on_Achievement_Compacts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Department_Preps_Media_Parents_on_New_Standards.htmlThe Kentucky Department of Education plans to release new accountability data in October, which will simplify accountability by assigning each district and school a score based on five main data sets. Achievement gaps, graduation rates, test scores, growth, and new college-and-career ready standards will be used to generate the scores, which will determine whether a district or school is "distinguished," "proficient," or "needs improvement."Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Department_Preps_Media_Parents_on_New_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Praises_School_Accountability_System.htmlDuring his State of Education address, Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett praised the new teacher evaluation models and said he hoped to expand the state's accountability system to all districts. All school districts are using new teacher evaluations this year based on the state's general framework, and Bennett indicated that the feedback from the evaluations will help identify the best teacher preparation programs.Tue, 25 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Praises_School_Accountability_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Proposes_Revisions_to_Increase_Rigor_in_School_Teacher_Quality.htmlThe Connecticut Educator Preparation Advisory Council will develop policy recommendations and propose regulatory revisions to increase teacher and school leader preparation at the behest of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. The council, co-chaired by State Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor and Board of Regents for Higher Education Executive Vice President Michael Meotti, must examine educator training and its alignment with school and district needs and responsiveness to feedback; establish recruitment best practices and standards for candidate acceptance into these programs; and develop metrics for preparation program performance linked in part to graduate performance in the years following entry into the education field.Sun, 23 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Proposes_Revisions_to_Increase_Rigor_in_School_Teacher_Quality.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Begins_Gathering_Data_on_School_Technology.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson has urged more schools to take part in the Technology Readiness Tool survey to gauge the readiness of new online assessments aligned to the Common Core State Standards. "We know our schools already face enormous day-to-day challenges -- but we also need to understand what issues they face as we move to online testing over the next few years. We know this effort will take time, energy and resources -- all of which are in short supply. That's why we need the broadest participation possible in this survey, so that we provide as much assistance as possible to schools as they make the transition to 21st-century testing," he says.Tue, 25 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Begins_Gathering_Data_on_School_Technology.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Va_Schools_Could_Face_More_Rigorous_Standards_on_Math_Tests.htmlAll Virginia students in the 2017-18 school year will be expected to meet a 73 percent passing rate on math tests under a plan aimed at narrowing achievement gaps among students of all backgrounds. Schools would be required to reduce achievement gaps on standards-of-learning exams between different student groups by 50 percent. Students must meet or exceed a minimum pass rate every year.Thu, 20 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Va_Schools_Could_Face_More_Rigorous_Standards_on_Math_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Juneau_Announces_Math_Science_Grants.htmlMontana will receive about $2 million in federal grant money to improve K-12 math and science programs. The money will be used to train teachers on how to better teach math and science and to better prepare students for the workforce after graduation. Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau says, "Partnership between Bozeman Public schools and Montana State University, they will develop a training system, they'll bring teachers in from the system who will become experts in math and then they will go out regionally and train other teachers across the state, and so pretty soon you'll have this big pool of teachers that are ready to do a lot of training back onsite at their own school systems."Tue, 18 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Juneau_Announces_Math_Science_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Students_Take_New_First_National_Computer-Based_Test.htmlAccording to The Nation's Report Card from the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP), about 25 percent of the 50,000 students who participated in the United States' first national computer-based writing test scored a "proficient" or "advanced" score on the test. While NAEP has conducted writing assessments in the past, this is the first year the test was computer-based, according to officials from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).Sun, 16 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Students_Take_New_First_National_Computer-Based_Test.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Task_Force_to_Be_Formed_to_Address_Widening_Achievement_Gap_as_Test_Scores_Fall.htmlKansas Education Commissioner Diane DeBacker says that a task force will be created to address the achievement gap among students, noting, "we need to be looking at that at a state level." She plans to seek assistance from the Kansas African American Affairs Commission, Kansas Hispanic and Latino Affairs Commission, and the Midwest Equity Assistance Center at Kansas State University to address achievement gaps among certain student groups.Wed, 19 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Task_Force_to_Be_Formed_to_Address_Widening_Achievement_Gap_as_Test_Scores_Fall.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Charter_School_Framework_Released_in_Delaware.htmlThe Delaware State Board of Education and the State Department of Education have collaborated on a set of guidelines that establishes a new performance framework for charter schools, known as the Charter Performance Framework. The framework is expected to provide clarity of charter school performance and a better platform for monitoring the schools. State Education Secretary Mark Murphy says, "What we achieve with this, is an ability to measure the performance of our charters each year and we have not had a good structure to do that work in the past."Thu, 20 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Charter_School_Framework_Released_in_Delaware.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Department_of_Education_to_Recognize_Support_Civic_Literacy.htmlArizona recently launched the Excellence in Civic Engagement Program to ensure students have knowledge of the general framework of government and that they acquire the skills and traits necessary to participate as active and responsible citizens. State Superintendent of Public Instruction John Huppenthal said, "If we are to preserve our constitutional democracy, it is critical that we help our children learn about their rights, roles, and responsibilities as American citizens. The Excellence in Civic Engagement Program is designed to support the efforts of our schools in promoting civic learning, and to ensure that each generation sustain and strengthen the values that define the United States of America."Wed, 19 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Department_of_Education_to_Recognize_Support_Civic_Literacy.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Resource_for_Education_Grant_Funding_.htmlCDW Government LLC, a leading provider of technology solutions to education and government, has released a new free resource designed to help educational institutions more easily search for grant funding opportunities. GetEdFunding, is an easy-to-use, relevant and reliable source of active grants and awards to help offset budget challenges in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 and higher education institutions.Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Resource_for_Education_Grant_Funding_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Publication_Focuses_on_Effective_Principal_Evaluation.htmlThe National Association of Elementary Principals (NAESP), the National Association of Secondary Principals (NASSP), Johns Hopkins University, and the American Institutes for Research released a new collaborative framework and guide for policymakers and practitioners on effective principal evaluation found titled: Rethinking Principal Evaluation.Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Publication_Focuses_on_Effective_Principal_Evaluation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_State_Standards_Official_Identifiers_and_XML_Representation.htmlCCSSO and National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center), working closely with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) authors, have released an official approach for publishing identifiers and XML designation to represent the CCSS, consistent with their adopted format and now available on www.corestandards.org.Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_State_Standards_Official_Identifiers_and_XML_Representation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Travels_to_China_and_Singapore.htmlThe 2012 National Teacher of the Year Rebecca Mieliwocki traveled to China and Singapore this month. International trips are meant to help educators expand professional knowledge, compare curriculum and resources, and discuss policies.Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Teacher_of_the_Year_Travels_to_China_and_Singapore.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_All_Public_High_School_Juniors_Would_Take_ACT_in_2014-15_Under_Evers_Proposal.htmlWisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Evers has proposed a $7 million budget initiative that calls for all public high school juniors to take the ACT college admissions test and replace the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examination (WKCE) with other ACT tests to measure college and career readiness.Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_All_Public_High_School_Juniors_Would_Take_ACT_in_2014-15_Under_Evers_Proposal.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Prepping_to_Be_a_Reac3h_Coach.htmlThe Oklahoma State Department of Education has so far trained 60 professional educators as REAC3H -- Regional Educators Advancing College, Career, and Citizenship readiness Higher -- coaches as part of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Janet Barresi's C3 Plan to ensure students graduate college, career, and citizen ready.Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Prepping_to_Be_a_Reac3h_Coach.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Juneau_Gets_50K_to_Further_Support_Graduation_Matters_Initiative.htmlThe Montana Office of Public Instruction has received a $50,000 gift from the nonprofit Student Assistance Foundation, and 10 high schools will receive $5,000 awards. The winning schools must showcase their ability to have seniors complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, discuss college-going attitudes and related issues with families, or design activities to bolster graduation rates and college preparedness.Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Juneau_Gets_50K_to_Further_Support_Graduation_Matters_Initiative.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Applauds_SAU_13.htmlAt a recent teacher and staff breakfast, New Hampshire Education Commissioner Dr. Virginia Barry praised SAU 13 -- which includes schools in Freedom, Madison, and Tamworth -- for its efforts to implement the Common Core standards. "You're one of the districts moving forward. You are really trying to commit to what it really means to be college and career ready," Barry said, adding that the standards will focus on learning progressions instead of grade-level progressions.Tue, 11 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Applauds_SAU_13.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_New_Missouri_Chinese_Language_Program_Supports_International_Education.htmlA memorandum of understanding between Columbia Public Schools (CPS) and the University of Missouri's Office of the Vice Provost for International Programs/Confucius Institute will enable seventh graders at several schools in the district to participate in a Chinese language program beginning in the fall of 2013.Tue, 11 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_New_Missouri_Chinese_Language_Program_Supports_International_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Department_of_Education_Rolls_Out_Initiative_to_Help_Improve_Literacy.htmlOn Sept. 11, Maine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen rolled out Literacy for ME, an initiative that aims to raise literacy levels statewide. He said that rather than depend only on public schools, communities must create plans to boost literacy rates from birth to adulthood, and he called on early-childhood education providers, public schools, adult education programs, higher education institutions, charitable foundations, and other organizations to collaborate to identify and close gaps.Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Department_of_Education_Rolls_Out_Initiative_to_Help_Improve_Literacy.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tougher_Standards_Coming_to_Louisianas_Nonpublic_Schools.htmlLouisiana Superintendent of Education John White met with the Nonpublic School Commission on Sept. 11 to discuss a "conceptual framework" for new rules for nonpublic schools seeking funding and to offer vouchers. White said a number of review and approval processes are under revision with the goal of "minimizing work not dedicated to student achievement."Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tougher_Standards_Coming_to_Louisianas_Nonpublic_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_State_Education_Report_Calls_for_Sweeping_Reforms_in_Teacher_Evaluation.htmlOn Sept. 10, the California Department of Education released a 90-page report from the Task Force on Educator Excellence, established by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson earlier this year, that offers recommendations that could change education policy at the school district and state levels. Torlakson says it is the most comprehensive report on the teaching profession in over 10 years.Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/_State_Education_Report_Calls_for_Sweeping_Reforms_in_Teacher_Evaluation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_900_Districts_Set_to_Compete_for_New_Race_to_Top.htmlAbout 893 school districts or groups of districts have filed applications for $400 million in U.S. Department of Education grants in the Race to the Top competition to spur local improvements. Nearly 200 large districts are eligible for top awards of between $30 million and $40 million, while 433 small districts plan to compete for $10 million to $20 million in awards.Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_900_Districts_Set_to_Compete_for_New_Race_to_Top.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Blue_Ribbon_Schools_Announced.htmlOn Sept. 7, the U.S. Department of Education recognized 269 schools across the country as 2012 National Blue Ribbon Schools.Fri, 07 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Blue_Ribbon_Schools_Announced.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/8_Problems_With_the_Common_Core_State_Standards_I_Dont_Think_So.htmlIn this commentary, National Center on Education and the Economy President Marc Tucker responds to an Aug. 15 column in the Washington Post by Marion Brady that he feels is "way off the mark" in regards to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/8_Problems_With_the_Common_Core_State_Standards_I_Dont_Think_So.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lyon_Teachers_Continue_Training_for_Common_Core.htmlAt the Aug. 28 meeting of the Lyon County (Nev.) School District's Board of Trustees, Claudia Fadness, the district's director of curriculum and accountability, discussed steps the district plans to take in the near future to train teachers in the Common Core State Standards. Grant money has been used to hire instructional coaches to support implementation of the instructional units at each school.Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lyon_Teachers_Continue_Training_for_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Louisiana_Course_Choice_Program_Upends_Public_School_Model_to_Offer_Personalized_Classes.htmlThe new "Course Choice" program, part of Louisiana's education reform law passed earlier this year, will provide expanded course options to students beginning in the 2013-14 school year. The State Department of Education has received more than 30 applications from contracting groups, online course providers, and colleges that plan to offer the academic courses, skills training, and work-based apprenticeships outside public school classrooms.Sat, 08 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Louisiana_Course_Choice_Program_Upends_Public_School_Model_to_Offer_Personalized_Classes.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_and_Microsoft_Team_on_Tech_Business_Classes.htmlThe Georgia Department of Education, with the help of $600,000 in state funding, is collaborating with Microsoft to provide access to Microsoft's IT Academy to public high school students across the state. These specialized classes enable students to obtain industry certifications and prepare them for college and careers.Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_and_Microsoft_Team_on_Tech_Business_Classes.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Invites_Public_Comment_on_New_Education_Standards.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson has requested public comments on the new Career Technical Education (CTE) Model Curriculum Standards that is defined as the knowledge, concepts, and skills students need to acquire at each grade level. State law requires the development and adoption of these standards, which should incorporate career technology into academic education for grades 7-12.Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Invites_Public_Comment_on_New_Education_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Leaders_Focus_on_Training_Teachers_for_Common_Core_Standards.htmlThe Common Core Standards must be fully implemented in Arizona by the 2013-14 school year, and state leaders have unveiled a website to help teachers and the community understand and adhere to the standards. The Arizona Department of Education has held over 400 training sessions and trained more than 14,000 of the state's nearly 70,000 teachers so far.Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Leaders_Focus_on_Training_Teachers_for_Common_Core_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NAEP_Releases_Results_of_First_Computer-Based_Writing_Assessment_.htmlOn Friday, Sept. 14, 2012, at 11 a.m. EDT the National Assessment Governing Board, which sets policy for NAEP, will host a live webinar to explore the results of a groundbreaking assessment that used technology and tools comparable to those in America’s workplaces to test the writing skills of 8th- and 12th-grade students.Fri, 07 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NAEP_Releases_Results_of_First_Computer-Based_Writing_Assessment_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PDKGallup_Releases_Poll_of_the_Publics_Attitudes_Toward_Public_Schools.htmlThe 2012 annual Phi Delta Kappa (PDK)/Gallup Poll of the Public’s Attitudes Toward Public Schools, which polls the public on a number of education topics, contains positive findings for the Common Core. According to the report, most Americans believe the Common Core standards will allow U.S. schools to compete globally, and three out of four Americans believe the standards will provide more consistency in the quality of education between school districts and states. In addition, half of those polled believe the standards will improve the quality of education in their community schools.Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PDKGallup_Releases_Poll_of_the_Publics_Attitudes_Toward_Public_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Imposes_New_Labels_on_Schools.htmlMinneapolis Star Tribune (08/30/12) McGuire, Kim; Brandt, Steve Minnesota officials announced that 213 schools would be subject to new state Multiple Measurement Ranking (MMR) labels and corrective actions. These schools were listed as underperforming and will receive federal Title I money to address higher levels of poverty. Schools received one of five designations: Reward, Celebration, Continuous Improvement, Focus, and Priority.Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Imposes_New_Labels_on_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Year_Starts_With_New_Curriculum.htmlIn Maryland, the new school year marks the implementation of the Common Core State Standards. Most school districts are incorporating the new reading and math standards into existing lessons, rather than buy new textbooks, and some smaller counties are working together to write a new curriculum.Sun, 26 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Year_Starts_With_New_Curriculum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Teachers_Face_New_Ways_to_Learn_Teach.htmlLouisiana students and teachers will face news ways of learning and teaching as the state implements the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in its curriculum. State Superintendent of Education John White says, "It represents a significant shift of what we are expecting of students and teachers. It's more rigorous on one hand and representative of basic skills, on the other hand." The new standards will be implemented first in English language arts/literacy and mathematics, with a full assessment of how students are performing under the new standards in the 2014-15 school year.Sat, 25 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Teachers_Face_New_Ways_to_Learn_Teach.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Beshear_Overhauls_Career_and_Technical_Education.htmlKentucky Gov. Steve Beshear recently signed an executive order that will reform the state's career and technical education (CTE) system and unite the two CTE systems under the State Department of Education to ensure they are more unified and efficient. "Bringing the Office of Career and Technical Education into the Kentucky Department of Education is an excellent move.Tue, 28 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Beshear_Overhauls_Career_and_Technical_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Solano_County_Educators_Prepare_for_New_Rigorous_Academic_Standards.htmlThe Solano County Office of Education (SCOE) in California is working hard to prepare educators for the implementation of the Common Core State Standards in the 2014-15 school year. SCOE has partnered with Pearson to provide training to teachers and administrators, with intensive training on the new math standards held Aug. 20-21 and additional training sessions on both the math and English-language arts standards slated for September and October.Tue, 28 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Solano_County_Educators_Prepare_for_New_Rigorous_Academic_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Adopts_Native_American_Language_Teacher_Certification_Policy_.htmlThe Arizona Department of Education and Native American tribes helped create a recently adopted policy to enable certified Native language speakers to teach their Native languages in Arizona classrooms. The Native American Language Certification Policy already is being used by the Navajo Nation, and other Native American tribes are developing proficiency assessments to take part in the initiative.Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Adopts_Native_American_Language_Teacher_Certification_Policy_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_highlights_state_Common_Core_implementation_work_in_new_publication.htmlTo provide all states with quick access to sample practices they can quickly and easily use, CCSSO has compiled examples of state Common Core implementation work in three keys areas: system alignment and systems change; educator supports; and communication and engagement tools.Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_highlights_state_Common_Core_implementation_work_in_new_publication.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_launches_Research_and_Development_Advisory_Committee.htmlIn December 2011, CCSSO welcomed 12 esteemed colleagues of research and practitioner backgrounds into a Research and Development (R&D) Advisory committee intended to help guide CCSSO's research efforts. Comprised of diverse experts within educational research, development, and practitioner communities, the R&D Advisory has been instrumental in helping to design the nature of CCSSO's involvement within the educational research ecosystem. They continue to provide guidance to CCSSO's research activities and recommend opportunities for CCSSO to bridge research and practice.Thu, 03 Jan 2013 07:47:37 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_launches_Research_and_Development_Advisory_Committee.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO’s_Innovation_Lab_Network_presents_research_framework_at_Global_Education_Leaders_Program_forum_in_Helsinki_Finland.htmlOn June 14-17, 2012, representatives from CCSSO's Innovation Lab Network traveled to Helsinki, Finland, to join delegations from around the world in the Global Education Leaders Program (GELP). There, they explored, discussed, and learned from each other's transformational journeys toward 21st century education.Thu, 03 Jan 2013 07:47:37 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO’s_Innovation_Lab_Network_presents_research_framework_at_Global_Education_Leaders_Program_forum_in_Helsinki_Finland.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NGLC_Announces_12_New_Breakthrough_Models_for_College_Readiness.htmlNext Generation Learning Challenges, an initiative dedicated to improving college readiness and completion, today announced $4.5 million in grants for comprehensive new secondary school and college models that use technology to reach targets for affordability and student success.Thu, 21 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NGLC_Announces_12_New_Breakthrough_Models_for_College_Readiness.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/USED_Hosts_Labor-Management_Collaboration_Conference_May_23-24.htmlChief State School Officers are invited to attend this year’s Labor-Management Collaboration Conference from May 23 to 24 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Last year’s event in Denver was for districts only; this year’s event will be open to State as well as district teams.Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/USED_Hosts_Labor-Management_Collaboration_Conference_May_23-24.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Joins_National_Education_Leaders_to_Release_Shared_Vision_for_Next_Generation_of_Teaching_.htmlCCSSO Executive Director Gene Wilhoit joined U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and six fellow national education leaders today in signing a shared vision for the future of the teaching profession during the opening 2012 Labor Management Conference in Cincinnati.Wed, 23 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Joins_National_Education_Leaders_to_Release_Shared_Vision_for_Next_Generation_of_Teaching_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Co-Host_second_International_Summit_on_Teaching_Profession.htmlChief state school officers from around the country and CCSSO Executive Director, Gene Wilhoit will join U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, educators and leaders from across the world at the second annual International Summit on the Teaching Profession (International Summit) in New York City, March 14-15.Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Co-Host_second_International_Summit_on_Teaching_Profession.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Kicks_off_Assessment_Advisory_Forum_Series.htmlCCSSO recently kicked off a new series of convenings to facilitate discussion among assessment consortia, state leaders and technology/assessment experts around issues identified by the five federally-funded assessment consortia to support the development of comparable assessment systems that are aligned to the Common Core State Standards.Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Kicks_off_Assessment_Advisory_Forum_Series.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Briefing_on_State_Waiver_Applications_November_14_2011_at_10am_ET.htmlSeveral states will submit applications to the U.S. Department of Education on November 14 seeking waivers of certain provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). These waivers will allow states the flexibility to develop stronger accountability and teacher evaluation systems, and provide relief from current provisions preventing states moving forward with reform.Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Briefing_on_State_Waiver_Applications_November_14_2011_at_10am_ET.html