http://www.ccsso.org/en-ushttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_to_Host_Webinar_on_Improving_Access_to_Free_Text_Resources.htmlOn Wednesday, October 9, MetaMetrics will host a webinar on gaining access to free text resources to improve student reading levels.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_to_Host_Webinar_on_Improving_Access_to_Free_Text_Resources.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Data_Quality_Campaign_to_Host_Webinar_Series_on_Privacy_and_Data_Use.htmlThe Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) will allow its common math assessments to be translated into Spanish and other languages needed by member states.Mon, 30 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Data_Quality_Campaign_to_Host_Webinar_Series_on_Privacy_and_Data_Use.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCCs_Common_Math_Tests_to_Be_Translated_Into_Spanish.htmlThe Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) will allow its common math assessments to be translated into Spanish and other languages needed by member states.Wed, 25 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCCs_Common_Math_Tests_to_Be_Translated_Into_Spanish.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Commissioner_Addresses_State_Education_Overhaul.htmlDuring his annual convocation on Sept. 19, New Jersey Education Commissioner Christopher Cerf talked about the education overhaul that includes changes to curriculum standards, the teacher evaluation system effective in September, and a new standardized assessment to be implemented in the 2014-15 school year.Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Commissioner_Addresses_State_Education_Overhaul.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Average_SAT_Score_Rises_for_North_Carolina_Students.htmlMore than 58,000 North Carolina high school seniors took the SAT in 2013, and their average combined score of 1,479 marks a 10 percent gain from last year, according to the State Department of Public Instruction.Sat, 28 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Average_SAT_Score_Rises_for_North_Carolina_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Graduation_Matters_Montana_Receives_50K_Grant_to_Help_Students_Seek_College_Aid.htmlFor the second year, the Student Assistance Foundation has given a $50,000 grant to Graduation Matters Montana to help schools provide information students and parents need to apply for college financial aid.Fri, 20 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Graduation_Matters_Montana_Receives_50K_Grant_to_Help_Students_Seek_College_Aid.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Officials_Want_to_Untie_Tests_From_Evaluations.htmlMaryland Superintendent Lillian Lowery agrees with educators who insist it is unfair to use standardized test scores in teacher evaluations when the Maryland School Assessment exams do not measure what is being taught under the Common Core State Standards.Wed, 25 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Officials_Want_to_Untie_Tests_From_Evaluations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Course_Choice_Providers_Are_Sought_by_Louisiana_Education_Department.htmlThe Louisiana Department of Education wants to expand its Course Choice program next year and is looking for additional education providers.Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Course_Choice_Providers_Are_Sought_by_Louisiana_Education_Department.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Turn_to_Grade_Teachers.htmlK-12 students in Hawaii will take the Tripod Student Perceptions Survey through Oct. 18 to help improve teaching and learning by providing feedback to educators.Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Students_Turn_to_Grade_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Delaware_Becomes_Seventh_State_to_Adopt_Common_Science_Standards.htmlDelaware has become the seventh state to adopt the Next Generation Science Standards, following in the footsteps of California, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Vermont.Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Delaware_Becomes_Seventh_State_to_Adopt_Common_Science_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/41_Percent_of_Virginia_Public_Schools_Meet_Annual_Benchmarks_in_Reading_Math_Graduation.htmlOf Virginia's 1,828 public schools, 41 percent met annual benchmarks aimed at reducing proficiency gaps between low-performing and high-performing schools.Tue, 17 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/41_Percent_of_Virginia_Public_Schools_Meet_Annual_Benchmarks_in_Reading_Math_Graduation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Officials_Defend_New_Common_Core_Standards_for_K-12_Education.htmlAt a recent Siouxland Republican Women panel, South Dakota Education Secretary Melody Schopp defended the Common Core State Standards, saying that they challenge students to think more deeply and emphasize critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to make viable arguments.Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Officials_Defend_New_Common_Core_Standards_for_K-12_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Seeks_to_Amend_Education_Legislation.htmlSouth Carolina Superintendent of Education Mick Zais and state lawmakers are working on amendments to the Education Accountability Act to help failing schools improve.Sat, 14 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Seeks_to_Amend_Education_Legislation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Jersey_Pushing_Plan_to_Require_Better_College_Grades_From_Incoming_Teachers.htmlNew Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf submitted a package of proposals to lawmakers to require college graduates to have a "B" average in order to become teachers.Tue, 17 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Jersey_Pushing_Plan_to_Require_Better_College_Grades_From_Incoming_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Schools_Switch_Assessment_Guidelines.htmlOn Sept. 18, Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau filed a No Child Left Behind law waiver with the federal government to further implement the Common Core State Standards.Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Schools_Switch_Assessment_Guidelines.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/OMalley_Announces_Education_Grants.htmlMaryland Gov. Martin O'Malley and State Superintendent of Schools Lillian Lowery announced $5.5 million in grants to boost digital learning and to help high school students earn college credit.Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/OMalley_Announces_Education_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Indiana_Department_of_Education_Releases_ISTEP_Scores.htmlThe Indiana Department of Education has released statewide ISTEP+ scores that show 79.5 percent of students passed the English/Language Arts portion of the test and 82.7 percent passed math, up from 79.4 percent for English/Language Arts and 81.2 percent for math last year.Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Indiana_Department_of_Education_Releases_ISTEP_Scores.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Flexibility_Provided_by_Accountability_Act_Could_Allow_School_to_Start_Later_in_Day_State_Superintendent_Says.htmlThe Alabama State Board of Education approved the final administrative rule changes needed to reflect the requirements of the new Alabama Accountability Act.Mon, 16 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Flexibility_Provided_by_Accountability_Act_Could_Allow_School_to_Start_Later_in_Day_State_Superintendent_Says.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ohio_Department_of_Education_and_Battelle_for_Kids_Hosts_Rural_Education_National_Forum.htmlThe Ohio Department of Education and Battelle for Kids will host the Rural Education National Forum, an interactive opportunity for education, community, and business leaders dedicated to making education work for rural communities.Tue, 17 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ohio_Department_of_Education_and_Battelle_for_Kids_Hosts_Rural_Education_National_Forum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver-Renewal_Process_Turns_Up_Heat_on_States.htmlTwo years after offering states waivers under the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, the U.S. Department of Education hopes states will enhance accountability and offer support for the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in exchange for waivers and additional flexibility under the law.Wed, 11 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver-Renewal_Process_Turns_Up_Heat_on_States.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Improvements_in_School_Numbers_Show_that_Graduation_Matters.htmlThe Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) has awarded $450,000 over three years from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation to support community-based Graduation Matters initiatives, and OPI received an additional $15,000 to add to the challenge fund this year.Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Improvements_in_School_Numbers_Show_that_Graduation_Matters.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Touts_Common_Core_Standards_at_EHS.htmlMaryland Superintendent of Schools Lillian Lowery said during a Sept. 10 public forum that the introduction of Common Core State Standards (CCSS) to schools' curriculum will change the way educators, students, parents, and the community as a whole see, understand, and use education.Wed, 11 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Touts_Common_Core_Standards_at_EHS.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pre-K_Overhaul_Pilots_to_Expand.htmlLouisiana Education Superintendent John White says that the state will expand, and possibly double, the number of pilot projects testing Louisiana's overhaul of how 4-year-olds are educated in the spring.Fri, 13 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pre-K_Overhaul_Pilots_to_Expand.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Stand_for_Children_Common_Core_Video.htmlThis video by Stand for Children provides parents with a clear two-minute overview of what the Common Core is, why it’s critical now and how it will prepare our kids for college and the jobs of today – and tomorrow.Mon, 16 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Stand_for_Children_Common_Core_Video.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Statewide_Plan_Aims_to_Boost_Early_Literacy.htmlThe Response to Intervention initiative in Iowa aims to ensure students read at or above grade level by the end of third grade.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Statewide_Plan_Aims_to_Boost_Early_Literacy.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/14_Top-Performing_Hawaii_Public_Schools_Awarded_1_Million.htmlFourteen public schools were awarded $1 million in grants for exceptional achievement as part of Hawaii's new Strive HI Performance System, which is the state's redesigned school accountability and performance system that offers rewards to "recognition" schools that demonstrate significant progress in student achievement, graduation rates, and closing achievement gaps.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/14_Top-Performing_Hawaii_Public_Schools_Awarded_1_Million.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_OKs_3M_for_Public_School_Technology.htmlGuam Superintendent Jon Fernandez says $3 million in federal funds will be used to purchase new technology for schools, including 100 mobile laptop and tablet carts with a total of 3,000 computers.Wed, 11 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_OKs_3M_for_Public_School_Technology.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Wins_108-Million_Federal_Grant_to_Pay_AP_Test_Fees.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says the U.S. Department of Education approved the state's full grant request of $10.8 million to help close to 130,000 high school students pay for Advanced Placement and other college-level exams.Mon, 09 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Wins_108-Million_Federal_Grant_to_Pay_AP_Test_Fees.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Inaugural_Board_of_Directors_Named_for_New_National_Accreditor_.htmlThe Interim Board of Directors for the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) recently named CAEP’s first Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2013.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Inaugural_Board_of_Directors_Named_for_New_National_Accreditor_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Illinois_Releases_New_Report_Calling_for_Improved_Physical_and_Health_Education_Standards.htmlIllinois has released a new report from the Enhance Physical Education Task Force. The report calls for new benchmarks and strategies to improve and increase physical education classes, based on the latest neuroscience research linking physical activity with improved academic performance.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Illinois_Releases_New_Report_Calling_for_Improved_Physical_and_Health_Education_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Bridgespan_Releases_New_Report_on_State_Exemplars_of_Common_Core_Implementation.htmlBridgespan has released a new paper entitled Building the Missing Link Between the Common Core and Improved Learning.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Bridgespan_Releases_New_Report_on_State_Exemplars_of_Common_Core_Implementation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pennsylvania_Governor_Appoints_Acting_Secretary_of_Education.htmlGovernor Tom Corbett appointed Carolyn Dumaresq to serve as the Acting Secretary of Education in Pennsylvania on August 26, 2013.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pennsylvania_Governor_Appoints_Acting_Secretary_of_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nevada_Governor_Appoints_New_Superintendent_of_Public_Instruction.htmlOn August 26, 2013, Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval appointed Dale Erquiaga as the new State Superintendent of Public Instruction.Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nevada_Governor_Appoints_New_Superintendent_of_Public_Instruction.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_May_Move_Closer_to_Uniform_Way_of_Identifying_ELLs.htmlStates that have adopted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and are planning to roll out shared content assessments are turning their attention to establishing uniform standards for identifying English-language learners and determining when they no longer need language instruction.Thu, 05 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_May_Move_Closer_to_Uniform_Way_of_Identifying_ELLs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Data_Shows_28_Percent_of_WVa_Schools_Meet_Student_Learning_Improvement_Goals.htmlThe West Virginia Department of Education released data from its new accountability system, which found that 28 percent of schools met goals for student learning and improvement and 38 percent had met one of the two goals.Wed, 04 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Data_Shows_28_Percent_of_WVa_Schools_Meet_Student_Learning_Improvement_Goals.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_One_of_Five_States_Selected_for_National_Education_Initiative.htmlState Education Secretary Armando Vilaseca announced that Vermont is one of five states — New Hampshire, Maryland, Mississippi, and Oregon being the others — chosen by the University of Kansas to receive a five-year, $24.5-million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to implement the K-8 Schoolwide Integrated Framework for Transformation (SWIFT) national education initiative.Wed, 04 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_One_of_Five_States_Selected_for_National_Education_Initiative.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Ushers_in_New_Education_Standards_Tests.htmlSchool districts in North Dakota were told by the State Department of Public Instruction to begin planning for the 2015 implementation of the Common Core State Standards by July 1, 2013, if they had not done so already.Mon, 02 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Ushers_in_New_Education_Standards_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Free_ACT_Testing_Encourages_Students_to_Seek_Higher_Education.htmlThe Montana Office of Public Instruction reported that more than 9,000 public school juniors took the ACT test last spring, an increase of 3,000 students over the previous year.Tue, 03 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Free_ACT_Testing_Encourages_Students_to_Seek_Higher_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Torlakson_Directs_622_Million_in_State_Funding_to_Help_School_Districts_Bring_Common_Core_Standards_to_Life.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson announced that schools will receive $622 million in new funding at the beginning of the school year to support the transition to the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS).Tue, 03 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Torlakson_Directs_622_Million_in_State_Funding_to_Help_School_Districts_Bring_Common_Core_Standards_to_Life.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Wants_Changes_in_Assessing_Students_With_Disabilities.htmlOn Aug. 23, the U.S. Department of Education proposed regulations that would transition away from the 2 percent rule, emphasizing the department's commitment to holding all students to high standards in order to prepare them for college and career.Sat, 24 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Wants_Changes_in_Assessing_Students_With_Disabilities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Supporting_the_Common_Core_State_Standards_for_Mathematics.htmlThe National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) will help educators interpret and understand the Common Core State Standards in mathematics and support efforts to create comprehensive and coherent instruction and assessment systems at the school, district, and state levels.Thu, 01 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Supporting_the_Common_Core_State_Standards_for_Mathematics.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Richard_Ross_Promotes_Third-Grade_Reading_and_States_New_Straight_A_Fund_in_Visit_to_Cleveland.htmlDuring a visit to schools in Cleveland as part of a statewide tour, Ohio Superintendent of Public Instruction Richard Ross touted the state's requirement that students be able to read by the end of third grade.Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Richard_Ross_Promotes_Third-Grade_Reading_and_States_New_Straight_A_Fund_in_Visit_to_Cleveland.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Cuomo_Launches_NYS_Community_Schools_Initiative_to_Transform_Schools_in_Distressed_Communities_Into_Hubs_for_Children_and_Family_Services.htmlNew York Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently rolled out the NYS Community Schools initiative to transform schools in distressed communities into hubs that provide healthcare, counseling, nutrition, job preparation, and other services for children and families.Mon, 26 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Cuomo_Launches_NYS_Community_Schools_Initiative_to_Transform_Schools_in_Distressed_Communities_Into_Hubs_for_Children_and_Family_Services.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Mississippi_Increases_Graduation_Rate_Scores_Improve.htmlThe Mississippi Department of Education announced recently that the four-year graduation rate reached a six-year high in 2013 at just over 75 percent, marking a three-point decrease since last year in the number of dropouts.Thu, 22 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Mississippi_Increases_Graduation_Rate_Scores_Improve.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Board_Approves_Teacher_Evaluation_Model.htmlThe Missouri Board of Education gave final approval to guidelines for evaluating teachers and administrators, and school districts have the option to adopt the state blueprint or their own system, so long as it incorporates the approved principles.Thu, 22 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Board_Approves_Teacher_Evaluation_Model.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Test_Scores_Indicate_Improvement_in_Math.htmlMinnesota Commissioner of Education Brenda Cassellius said that the state plans to keep its tests and academic standards steady for the next decade or longer.Mon, 26 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Test_Scores_Indicate_Improvement_in_Math.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Brownback_Announces_JAG_Program_LHS_Participates.htmlKansas has rolled out the Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) program at 25 high schools in an effort to boost graduation rates and academic achievement to ensure students are successful in school and the workplace.Mon, 26 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Brownback_Announces_JAG_Program_LHS_Participates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Begins_Search_for_Commissioner_of_Education.htmlThe Nebraska Department of Education has begun its search for the position of Nebraska Education Commissioner. The application form for the position is now available.Wed, 04 Sep 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nebraska_Begins_Search_for_Commissioner_of_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Releases_School_Ratings_Under_New_Accountability_System.htmlThe Alaska Department of Education and Early Development recently released the first results of the state's new accountability and support system for public schools.Wed, 21 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Releases_School_Ratings_Under_New_Accountability_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Delaware_Schools_Receive_15_Million_in_Grant_Money.htmlThe Delaware Education Department has awarded close to $1.5 million in grants to 14 programs that will have the biggest impact on students.Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Delaware_Schools_Receive_15_Million_in_Grant_Money.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ritz_in_City_Touting_Education_Outreach.htmlIndiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz visited Fort Wayne on Aug. 21 and met with Allen County education leaders to drum up support for the Department of Education's new outreach division for school improvement.Wed, 21 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ritz_in_City_Touting_Education_Outreach.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ky_Schools_Look_to_Singapore_to_Raise_Math_Scores.htmlKentucky was the first state to adopt the Common Core State Standards in reading and math, and the state is expected to adopt the Next Generation Science standards as well, despite push back from critics who warn the standards represent a federal take over of education.Sun, 18 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ky_Schools_Look_to_Singapore_to_Raise_Math_Scores.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Education_Commissioner_Resigns_to_Take_National_Post.htmlMaine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen announced Aug. 16 that he will resign effective Sept. 12 to take a job with the Council of Chief State School Officers. Gov.Fri, 16 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Education_Commissioner_Resigns_to_Take_National_Post.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pennsylvania_Gets_Its_No_Child_Left_Behind_Act_Waiver_Just_in_Time.htmlThe U.S. Education Department recently approved Pennsylvania's application for a No Child Left Behind (NCLB) waiver, just in time for the 2013-14 school year.Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Pennsylvania_Gets_Its_No_Child_Left_Behind_Act_Waiver_Just_in_Time.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PCSS_Alternative_Compensation_Model_an_Example_for_State.htmlSchool districts across Tennessee must create teacher pay plans that factor in more than years of experience and degrees earned, and State Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman thinks Putnam County's Putnam Achieving Student Success (PASS) model serves as a good example.Mon, 19 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PCSS_Alternative_Compensation_Model_an_Example_for_State.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginia_Reading_Scores_Drop_by_Double_Digits_on_New_SOL_Test.htmlReading scores for the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) exam fell by double digits after a new, tougher test was introduced this year, said the Virginia Department of Education. Virginia's new on-line standardized tests, which align with revised academic standards, represent a shift from emphasizing minimum grade-level skills to higher-order thinking skills and knowledge. "We are asking students to meet higher expectations so that when they graduate, they will be ready for college and the workforce," said Patricia I. Wright, superintendent of public instruction. "Raising standards is difficult, but well worth the effort."Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginia_Reading_Scores_Drop_by_Double_Digits_on_New_SOL_Test.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Superintendent_to_Teachers_Purge_What_State_Has_Told_You_for_Past_25_Years.htmlSpeaking before teachers and employees of Etowah County Schools, Alabama Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice urged them to "purge all that the state department has told you over the last 25 years."Mon, 12 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Superintendent_to_Teachers_Purge_What_State_Has_Told_You_for_Past_25_Years.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisianas_Education_Head_Says_Common_Core_Empowers_Teachers.htmlLouisiana has been preparing for the full implementation of the Common Core State Standards since 2010, and State Superintendent of Education John White thinks the standards will upgrade public education and level the playing field. White says implementation is being done in phases, with students taking the online tests in 2015 and the tests increasing in rigor this year.Mon, 12 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisianas_Education_Head_Says_Common_Core_Empowers_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Feds_Grant_Maine_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waiver.htmlThe U.S. Education Department has granted Maine a No Child Left Behind waiver to give school districts across the state greater flexibility in meeting the law's requirements and avoid penalties.Mon, 12 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Feds_Grant_Maine_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waiver.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NC_High_Schools_Graduation_Rate_Rises_Above_82_Percent_Sets_Record.htmlAccording to the latest high school graduation rate figures, 82.5 percent of North Carolina students graduated in four years this year, up from 80.4 percent in 2012.Mon, 12 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NC_High_Schools_Graduation_Rate_Rises_Above_82_Percent_Sets_Record.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Better_Mentoring_for_New_NJ_Teachers_Proposed.htmlNew Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf has proposed changes to strengthen teacher mentoring programs, which have long been recognized as a critically important method of increasing teacher quality.Sat, 10 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Better_Mentoring_for_New_NJ_Teachers_Proposed.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Grants_Funds_for_Race_to_the_Top_School_Districts.htmlThe Tennessee Department of Education will award $8 million in grants from the First to the Top Scope of Work Supplemental Fund to 83 school districts.Wed, 14 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Grants_Funds_for_Race_to_the_Top_School_Districts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Graduation_Rates_Hit_New_High.htmlAccording to the Texas Education Agency, the on-time graduation rate for Texas high school students increased 1.8 percent from 2011 to 87.7 percent in 2012, marking the fifth consecutive yearly gain.Sat, 10 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Graduation_Rates_Hit_New_High.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Extends_States_Waiver.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education has extended Washington state's waiver from the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) through the 2013-14 school year.Thu, 15 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Extends_States_Waiver.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Battelle_Kids_Hosts_Rural_Education_National_Forum.htmlBattelle for Kids and the Ohio Department of Education will host the Rural Education National Forum, October 31 – November 1, 2013 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH.Tue, 20 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Battelle_Kids_Hosts_Rural_Education_National_Forum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Common-Core_To-Do_Lists_Topped_by_Tests_Curricula.htmlThe Center on Education Policy (CEP) has released a new report detailing how far along state education officials think they are in adopting the new Common Core State Standards in English/language arts and math.Wed, 07 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Common-Core_To-Do_Lists_Topped_by_Tests_Curricula.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/P21_and_Pearson_Foundation_Highlight_21st_Century_Learning_Exemplar_Schools.htmlThe Partnership for 21st Century Skills has rolled out "Patterns of Innovation: The 21st Century Learning Exemplar Program" (which can be accessed here) to share the experiences of schools that use the P21 Framework in teacher practice, curriculum, assessments, and professional development.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/P21_and_Pearson_Foundation_Highlight_21st_Century_Learning_Exemplar_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Texas_Education_Agency_Proposing_Changes_to_Assessment_Program_for_2013-2014_Year.htmlTexas Education Commissioner Michael Williams says the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will propose certain policy changes for the assessment program in the 2013-14 school year.Mon, 05 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Texas_Education_Agency_Proposing_Changes_to_Assessment_Program_for_2013-2014_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Releases_2012-13_School_District_Accountability_Results.htmlThe Tennessee Department of Education in early August recognized five school districts that achieved exemplary status in improving student performance and narrowing achievement gaps under the state's accountability system: Bells City Schools, Bradford Special School District, Elizabethton City Schools, Perry County Schools, and Stewart County Schools.Tue, 06 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Releases_2012-13_School_District_Accountability_Results.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/College-Bound_Get_Remedial_Help.htmlA new remedial program in South Dakota offers extra help to college-bound high school students whose ACT reading, math, or English scores were low.Fri, 02 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/College-Bound_Get_Remedial_Help.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Michigan_Department_of_Education_Awarded_400000_Grant_for_Preschool_Student_Data_System.htmlA $400,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation will help the Michigan Department of Education develop a preschool student data system, which will enable real-time data sharing among state agencies to monitor student progress from pre-K through graduation and encourage participation in health and development programs, among other things.Tue, 06 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Michigan_Department_of_Education_Awarded_400000_Grant_for_Preschool_Student_Data_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_Classroom_Improvements_Have_Taken_Time.htmlLouisiana Superintendent of Education John White said that while the state's students and teachers have achieved significant classroom performance improvements, the shift has been a gradual one.Mon, 05 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_Classroom_Improvements_Have_Taken_Time.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lower_NY_Test_Scores_Reflect_Tougher_Standards.htmlLess than 33 percent of New York students were found proficient in math and English under the new Common Core learning standards.Wed, 07 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Lower_NY_Test_Scores_Reflect_Tougher_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Gives_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waivers_to_California_Districts.htmlThe U.S. Education Department will grant No Child Left Behind waivers to eight California school districts in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other locations, marking a direct relationship between the federal government and local school systems for the first time.Tue, 06 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Gives_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waivers_to_California_Districts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Launches_iTunes_University_Courses.htmlCCSSO has launched an iTunes U page that includes courses designed to help states and districts implement the Common Core State Standards. iTunes U is a section of the iTunes Store where users can download free educational course content from universities, non-profit education institutions, state education agencies, and K-12 organizations.Tue, 13 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Launches_iTunes_University_Courses.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_“Back_to_School”_Webinar_Engaging_with_Parents_about_Common_Core.htmlCCSSO is hosting a “Back to School” webinar on Monday, August 26 at 3pm ET focused on providing state education agencies with helpful information for reaching out to parents about the changes Common Core will bring to their children’s classrooms.Tue, 13 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_“Back_to_School”_Webinar_Engaging_with_Parents_about_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Three_States_Get_Race_to_Top_Early-Learning_Boost.htmlColorado, Wisconsin, and New Mexico won the second round of the U.S. Department of Education's Race to the Top early-learning competition, and they are now receiving additional money because they already had early-learning plans supported by the department that were not fully funded.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Three_States_Get_Race_to_Top_Early-Learning_Boost.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chafee_Awards_335000_in_Early_Childhood_Grants_From_Race_to_the_Top.htmlAs part of its $50 million federal Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge grant, Rhode Island plans to award $5 million to preschools, childcare centers, and family childcare providers throughout the year.Wed, 31 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chafee_Awards_335000_in_Early_Childhood_Grants_From_Race_to_the_Top.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Michael_Flanagan_Michigan_State_Superintendent_and_Board_Chair_Receives_National_Honor.htmlMichigan Superintendent of Public Instruction and State Board of Education Chair Michael Flanagan has been given the Distinguished Service Award by the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE).Mon, 29 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Michael_Flanagan_Michigan_State_Superintendent_and_Board_Chair_Receives_National_Honor.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Massachusetts_Schools_to_Try_the_National_PARCC_Assessment_Test_This_Year.htmlMassachusetts will test the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test, which will eventually replace the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment Systems, in 2014.Mon, 29 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Massachusetts_Schools_to_Try_the_National_PARCC_Assessment_Test_This_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Grants_Seek_to_Improve_La_Schools.htmlLouisiana Superintendent of Education John White has announced the winners of the Believe and Succeed grants intended to transform struggling schools.Thu, 01 Aug 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Grants_Seek_to_Improve_La_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Expects_Common_Core_Testing_Costs_to_Be_Lower_Than_National_Estimates.htmlThe cost to administer the Common Core-aligned tests in math and reading to Kansas students will be higher than what the state is paying now but not as high as some recent national reports suggest.Sun, 28 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Expects_Common_Core_Testing_Costs_to_Be_Lower_Than_National_Estimates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hawaii_DOEs_Race_to_the_Top_Grant_No_Longer_in_High-Risk_Status.htmlAccording to a recent U.S. Department of Education evaluation, the Hawaii State Department of Education's four-year, $75 million Race to the Top grant will not longer be considered high risk.Mon, 29 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hawaii_DOEs_Race_to_the_Top_Grant_No_Longer_in_High-Risk_Status.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Our_View_Way_to_Boost_College_Graduation_Rates.htmlThe recent Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation study on the effectiveness of dual enrollment curriculum or competitive-enrollment, early-college programs reveals that students engaged in high school and college-level courses have higher and firmer college graduation rates.Tue, 30 Jul 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Our_View_Way_to_Boost_College_Graduation_Rates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Substance_Abuse_and_Mental_Health_Services_Administration_Holds_Virtual_Event_on_Safe_Schools.htmlOn behalf of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Center for Mental Promotion and Youth Violence Prevention will host a virtual National Forum on Fostering Safe and Healthy Schools through State Partnerships on Wednesday, August 14, 2013 from 2:00 – 3:30 pm EDT.Mon, 29 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Substance_Abuse_and_Mental_Health_Services_Administration_Holds_Virtual_Event_on_Safe_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_ILN_Sites_Awarded_Grants_to_Improve_College_and_Career_Readiness.htmlSites from CCSSO’s Innovation Lab Network (ILN) in Kentucky, New Hampshire and Wisconsin were awarded Next Generation Learning Challenges (NGLC) Wave IV grants, aimed to accelerate educational innovation to improve college and career readiness for all students.Mon, 29 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_ILN_Sites_Awarded_Grants_to_Improve_College_and_Career_Readiness.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Executive_Director_on_Improving_Licensure_Standards_to_Meet_Rising_Teacher_Expectations.htmlCCSSO Executive Director Chris Minnich writes in ASCD’s InService Blog, in support of improving licensure standards to meet rising teacher expectations.Mon, 29 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Executive_Director_on_Improving_Licensure_Standards_to_Meet_Rising_Teacher_Expectations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/House_Passes_Partisan_NCLB_Rewrite_But_Rocky_Road_Still_Ahead.htmlThe U.S. House passed a reauthorization of the long-delayed No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act without a single Democratic vote.Fri, 19 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/House_Passes_Partisan_NCLB_Rewrite_But_Rocky_Road_Still_Ahead.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Survey_States_Sticking_With_Common_Core_Standards.htmlAccording to a recent survey from the Center on Education Policy at George Washington University, 37 of the 40 states responding to the survey said it was unlikely they would reverse, limit, or change their decision to adopt the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for reading, writing, and math.Wed, 24 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Survey_States_Sticking_With_Common_Core_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Innovative_Approach_to_Teaching_and_Learning_Transforms_Small_Town_School.htmlWhen the College of Education at the University of Kentucky created a program to build capacity in leaders to design new systems for learning, Eminence's superintendent Buddy Berry and instructional supervisor Thom Coffee were among the first participants.Sat, 20 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Innovative_Approach_to_Teaching_and_Learning_Transforms_Small_Town_School.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Education_Chief_Kevin_Huffman_Sharpens_Focus_on_Special_Ed.htmlTennessee Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman plans to reform the state's special education programs. As nearly 14 percent of students are in special education programs across the state, he said, "special education is a huge focus in Tennessee, but they are not achieving at the levels we would consider acceptable."Thu, 18 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Education_Chief_Kevin_Huffman_Sharpens_Focus_on_Special_Ed.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/South_Carolina_Dropout_Rate_Declines_for_4th_Straight_Year.htmlThe South Carolina Education Department reported a decline in the state's dropout rate for the fourth straight year, with dropout rates declining in 51 of the state's 85 school districts.Wed, 24 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/South_Carolina_Dropout_Rate_Declines_for_4th_Straight_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Seeking_Alternative_Assessments_for_Students_with_Severe_Challenges.htmlNorth Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler says the state will join the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) consortium to develop alternate state assessments for students with severe cognitive disorders (SWSCD), who represent about 1 percent of students in grades where assessments are administered.Wed, 24 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Seeking_Alternative_Assessments_for_Students_with_Severe_Challenges.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Touts_First_Year_of_Required_ACT_Testing.htmlNow that Louisiana requires high school students to take the ACT, the number of students taking the college admissions test has increased by around 11,000 in 2013.Wed, 17 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Touts_First_Year_of_Required_ACT_Testing.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Malloy_Announces_10_Million_Technology_Grant_for_Schools.htmlConnecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and State Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor have announced a $10 million competitive technology grant for Connecticut school districts.Mon, 22 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Malloy_Announces_10_Million_Technology_Grant_for_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Seeks_to_Toughen_Standards_on_Teacher_Licensing.htmlTennessee Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman has proposed linking teacher licenses to student test scores, making it tougher for teachers to obtain and maintain licenses by demanding higher scores on initial licensing tests and requiring more frequent renewals.Tue, 16 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Seeks_to_Toughen_Standards_on_Teacher_Licensing.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Testing_Goes_Online_in_South_Dakota_for_2014.htmlBeginning in 2014, South Dakota public school students will take new Smarter Balance assessments to assess their abilities in math and English, replacing the STEP assessments.Sun, 14 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Testing_Goes_Online_in_South_Dakota_for_2014.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/47_SC_Schools_to_Pilot_Teacher_Evaluation_System.htmlIn South Carolina, 47 schools in 14 districts will pilot the performance-based teacher evaluation system proposed by State Superintendent of Education Mick Zais in the coming school year. AMon, 15 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/47_SC_Schools_to_Pilot_Teacher_Evaluation_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_School_Grades_Show_Improvement.htmlNew Mexico has released the 2013 A-F letter grades for 839 elementary, middle, and high schools. Grades were maintained or improved by more than 70 percent of schools, with improvements recorded by 87 percent of high schools. "Our challenge is to improve every student's achievement, every year.Fri, 12 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_School_Grades_Show_Improvement.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Proposes_New_System_to_Help_Struggling_Districts.htmlMichigan Superintendent of Public Instruction Michael Flanagan has proposed a hybrid system of county-wide school districts to help struggling local districts.Sun, 14 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Proposes_New_System_to_Help_Struggling_Districts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Demand_for_States_Course_Choice_Program_Exceeds_Capacity.htmlThe Louisiana Department of Education says the Course Choice pilot program, which lets students enroll in courses not available in their local schools, has surpassed enrollment capacity and used up all $2 million in funding less than a month after its approval by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.Sat, 20 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Demand_for_States_Course_Choice_Program_Exceeds_Capacity.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Approves_Safety_Net_for_School_Grades.htmlThe Florida State Board of Education decided on July 16 that school grades will not fall by more than one letter, regardless of their score, when rankings are released soon.Tue, 16 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Approves_Safety_Net_for_School_Grades.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Data_Promotes_College_Readiness_in_Delaware_Schools.htmlA new report by the Strategic Data Project and the Delaware Department of Education shows that the state's educators have improved their ability to track college readiness.Tue, 16 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Data_Promotes_College_Readiness_in_Delaware_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Resource_Analyzing_ISLLC_Standards.htmlCCSSO has released a new resource: Standards for Educational Leaders: An Analysis, written by Mary Canole (CCSSO) and Michelle D. Young (UCEA). The report reviews the ISLLC 2008 standards in light of today's educational context, research and practice.Tue, 23 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Resource_Analyzing_ISLLC_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Statement_on_ConnectED_Initiative_Announcement.htmlCCSSO executive director Chris Minnich released a statement regarding the Federal Communications Commission's bipartisan vote to seek public comment regarding improvements to the E-Rate program, which provides internet access to public schools and libraries:Tue, 23 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Statement_on_ConnectED_Initiative_Announcement.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Partners_with_Achieve_and_Student_Achievement_Partners_to_Develop_CCSS_Alignment_Tool.htmlIn joint partnership, Achieve, The Council of Chief State School Officers, and Student Achievement Partners have developed a Toolkit for Evaluating the Alignment of Instructional and Assessment Materials to the Common Core State Standards.Tue, 23 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Partners_with_Achieve_and_Student_Achievement_Partners_to_Develop_CCSS_Alignment_Tool.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Agencies_Partner_with_MetaMetrics_to_Fight_Summer_Reading_and_Math_Loss.htmlIn 2012, MetaMetrics®, developer of the widely adopted Lexile ® Framework for Reading and Quantile® Framework for Mathematics, and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), a nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the United States, joined forces to combat the summer loss epidemic by offering the “Chief’s Summer Reading Challenge”Tue, 16 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Education_Agencies_Partner_with_MetaMetrics_to_Fight_Summer_Reading_and_Math_Loss.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver_States_Split_on_New_Flexibility_Offer.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education has offered states with waivers from provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act additional time to begin using new teacher evaluation systems in hiring, firing, and promoting educators.Wed, 10 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver_States_Split_on_New_Flexibility_Offer.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver_Good_News_in_New_Hampshire.htmlNew Hampshire is the most recent state to receive a waiver from the No Child Left Behind Act.Sun, 07 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCLB_Waiver_Good_News_in_New_Hampshire.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Bill_Allocates_2M_for_Montana_Tribal_Language_Preservation_Efforts.htmlMontana lawmakers voted to set aside $2 million for the Montana Indian Language Preservation pilot program as called for by the Senate Bill 342.Mon, 01 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Bill_Allocates_2M_for_Montana_Tribal_Language_Preservation_Efforts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maryland_Students_Expected_to_Struggle_Less_to_Meet_New_Standards.htmlThe latest Education Trust report found that Maryland students made a 12-point gain on fourth grade reading scores between 2003 and 2011 based on NAEP scores.Tue, 09 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maryland_Students_Expected_to_Struggle_Less_to_Meet_New_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kansas_Considers_Out-of-State_Teacher_Licenses.htmlThe Kansas Department of Education is seeking a grant from the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) to study implementing CCSSO's 10 recommendations for improving the teaching profession, such as simplifying the licensing process for out-of-state teachers.Wed, 10 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kansas_Considers_Out-of-State_Teacher_Licenses.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Malloy_Feds_Must_Give_Local_School_Districts_Greater_Flexibility.htmlConnecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman, and Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor said the state will seek authorization from the U.S. Department of Education to provide public school districts with new flexibility on statewide standardized tests.Wed, 10 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Malloy_Feds_Must_Give_Local_School_Districts_Greater_Flexibility.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_Summer_Institute_in_Kohler_Wisconsin.htmlChiefs and education experts will gather in Kohler, Wisconsin to collaborate and identify areas of commonality that will drive the future of CCSSO’s advocacy and programmatic work.Tue, 09 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Hosts_Summer_Institute_in_Kohler_Wisconsin.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Backs_New_Science_Standards.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says he will recommend that the State Board of Education adopt the proposed Next Generation Science Standards, which aim to provide all students with the science skills they need to compete for jobs after graduation.Fri, 05 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Backs_New_Science_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Primary_Middle_Level_Students_Show_Gains.htmlAccording to the long-term National Assessment of Educational Progress results, U.S. elementary and middle-school students have made sizable gains on national math and reading tests in the past four decades, but high-school students have made none.Fri, 28 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Primary_Middle_Level_Students_Show_Gains.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/17_Struggling_Tenn_Schools_to_Share_27M.htmlThree-year federal school improvement grants totaling over $27 million were distributed by the Tennessee Department of Education to 17 of the lowest-performing 5 percent of schools in the state.Wed, 03 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/17_Struggling_Tenn_Schools_to_Share_27M.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefline_Releases_New_Resource_Reviewing_ISLLC_Standards.htmlCCSSO has released a new resource titled Standards for Educational Leaders: An Analysis, written by Mary Canole (CCSSO) and Michelle D. Young (UCEA).Mon, 15 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefline_Releases_New_Resource_Reviewing_ISLLC_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Rhode_Island_Education_Chief_Gist_Asks_Parents_to_Challenge_Schools.htmlThe Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) issued another round of school classifications on July 2.Wed, 03 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Rhode_Island_Education_Chief_Gist_Asks_Parents_to_Challenge_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Pulling_Out_of_Standardized_Testing_Through_Consortium.htmlOklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Janet Barresi has announced that the state will withdraw from testing through the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC), which is aligned with the Common Core standards.Mon, 01 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Pulling_Out_of_Standardized_Testing_Through_Consortium.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Reports_Continuing_Enrollment_in_Course_Choice_Pilot.htmlThe Louisiana Education Department says enrollment in its Course Choice mini-voucher program has grown to 1,500 students, using about 75 percent of the $2 million allotted to fund the program.Tue, 02 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Education_Reports_Continuing_Enrollment_in_Course_Choice_Pilot.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/11_Schools_Win_3M_From_Idaho_for_Tech_Projects.htmlIdaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna says 11 schools will share a $3 million state grant to test technology in the classroom.Mon, 01 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/11_Schools_Win_3M_From_Idaho_for_Tech_Projects.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_the_Race_to_the_Top_Will_Hawaii_Get_There_First.htmlHawaii has cruised through its policy actions and program development lists as part of its Race to the Top to-do list, including transitioning all grades to Common Core standards for the 2013-14 school year, providing intense teacher professional development aligned with the new standards, and improving and completing a longitudinal data system.Sun, 30 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_the_Race_to_the_Top_Will_Hawaii_Get_There_First.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Districts_Colleges_Should_Collaborate_on_Dual_Enrollment_Commissioner_Tony_Bennett_Says.htmlUnder a new model effective July 1, Florida districts must pay college tuition for high school students taking dual enrollment courses, but districts say they cannot use per-student funding to support college courses on top of paying for the students' books.Mon, 01 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Districts_Colleges_Should_Collaborate_on_Dual_Enrollment_Commissioner_Tony_Bennett_Says.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_Department_of_Education_Green_Ribbon_Schools_Launches_Third_Year.htmlU.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) is moving into its third year of the recognition award, with both school and district award categories.Tue, 09 Jul 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_Department_of_Education_Green_Ribbon_Schools_Launches_Third_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Foes_Spreading_Misinformation_Duncan_Says.htmlDuring a speech at the American Society of Newspaper Editors, U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan said the recent criticisms of the Common Core State Standards have spread misinformation, marring the implementation of the standards in 45 states and the District of Columbia.Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Foes_Spreading_Misinformation_Duncan_Says.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Preliminary_Results_Show_Reading_and_Writing_Passing_Rate_Surpassing_93_Percent_for_Class_of_2013.htmlWashington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Randy Dorn announced that preliminary state-level data found that more than 93 percent of the state's 12th-grade students in the Class of 2013 passed both the state reading and writing high school proficiency exams (HSPE), or state-approved alternatives, prior to reaching their respective graduation ceremonies.Fri, 21 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Preliminary_Results_Show_Reading_and_Writing_Passing_Rate_Surpassing_93_Percent_for_Class_of_2013.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Adopts_the_Next_Generation_Science_Standards.htmlIn a unanimous vote, the Vermont State Board of Education adopted the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), joining four other states -- Rhode Island, Kansas, Kentucky, and Maryland.Wed, 26 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Adopts_the_Next_Generation_Science_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Oklahoma_Becomes_19th_Leading_State_on_21st_Century_Readiness.htmlOklahoma has become the 19th state to join the Partnership for 21st Century Skills' P21 State Leadership Initiative, pushing the use of P21's Framework for 21st Century Learning to ensure student readiness for college, career, and citizenship.Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Oklahoma_Becomes_19th_Leading_State_on_21st_Century_Readiness.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Officials_Urge_Districts_to_Raise_the_Dropout_Age.htmlIn Kentucky, a new state law effective June 25 phases in an increase in the compulsory school attendance age from 16 to 18.Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Officials_Urge_Districts_to_Raise_the_Dropout_Age.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Idaho_to_Road-Test_Exams_in_2014.htmlIdaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna says schools will "field test" the new Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) tests, part of the transition to the Idaho Core Standards, in spring 2014.Thu, 20 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Idaho_to_Road-Test_Exams_in_2014.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Online_Assessment_for_Students_in_State.htmlConnecticut Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor will take advantage of U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan's flexibility proposal, asking that 20 percent of state students field-testing a new online assessment in the 2013-14 academic year not be required to take traditional state tests in the same year.Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Online_Assessment_for_Students_in_State.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Granted_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waiver.htmlAlabama Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice says the state has been awarded a waiver from the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) that will enable it to use its Plan 2020 to measure public school achievement.Sat, 22 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Granted_No_Child_Left_Behind_Waiver.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/TILSA_Announces_Release_of_New_Publication_Focused_on_Test_Security.htmlCCSSO’s Technical Issues in Large-Scale Assessment State Collaborative (TILSA) today announces the release of a new publication titled TILSA Test Security Guidebook.Sat, 22 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/TILSA_Announces_Release_of_New_Publication_Focused_on_Test_Security.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Allows_Waiver_States_Extra_Time_on_Teacher_Evaluation.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education (DOE) will give additional flexibility to states whose No Child Left Behind Act waiver requests were approved before the summer of 2012, allowing them to delay the use of student growth on state tests in their teacher evaluations for one year until the 2016-17 school year.Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arne_Duncan_Allows_Waiver_States_Extra_Time_on_Teacher_Evaluation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Holds_Teacher_Training_on_the_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlThe Tennessee Department of Education has launched the state's largest-ever training for educators who will help implement the Common Core State Standards in math and English.Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Holds_Teacher_Training_on_the_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maryland_Approves_Teacher_Principal_Evaluation_Plans.htmlOn June 13, the Maryland Department of Education announced the approval of 21 of 22 teacher and principal evaluation plans, which will take effect for the 2013-14 school year.Fri, 14 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maryland_Approves_Teacher_Principal_Evaluation_Plans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Receive_More_Training_on_Common_Core_Standards.htmlThe Louisiana Department of Education recently held a training session for 2,000 teacher leaders on the implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). These teachers were selected by their districts to train their colleagues and reach out to parents.Fri, 14 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Receive_More_Training_on_Common_Core_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Indiana_Schools_Superintendent_Glenda_Ritz_Outlines_Plans.htmlSpeaking at the Indiana Youth Institute's Postsecondary Counseling Institute, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz outlined two initiatives to improve the state's school improvement model and reorganize school guidance programs.Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Indiana_Schools_Superintendent_Glenda_Ritz_Outlines_Plans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Schools_to_Use_Career-Oriented_Education_Model.htmlThe Georgia Department of Education announced that it has developed courses for a new education model aimed at helping students find potential career paths.Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Schools_to_Use_Career-Oriented_Education_Model.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Kicks_Off_Californias_Common_Core_Summer.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson recently rolled out California's Common Core Summer, which will consist of two showcases to train teachers in the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS).Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Kicks_Off_Californias_Common_Core_Summer.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Enrollment_Open_for_Implementing_the_Common_Core_Standards_(ICCS)_Program_.htmlCCSSO is pleased to announce that enrollment is currently open for the 2013-2014 ICCS program year.Tue, 25 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Enrollment_Open_for_Implementing_the_Common_Core_Standards_(ICCS)_Program_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Setting_the_Record_Straight.htmlChris Minnich, Executive Director of CCSSO, and Richard Laine, Education Division Director of the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices address the recent questions and concerns raised in the media and the policy community about the origin and implementation of the Common Core State Standards.Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Setting_the_Record_Straight.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Tea_Party_Is_Wrong_on_the_Common_Core_Curriculum.htmlDelaware Gov. Jack Markell, co-chairman of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) Initiative, says the standards were developed over a year-long process by state leaders from both parties, along with highly respected people from the business community and leading educators.Sun, 09 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Tea_Party_Is_Wrong_on_the_Common_Core_Curriculum.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Companies_Call_for_Tech_Classes_in_Massachusetts_Schools.htmlGoogle Inc., Microsoft Corp., and other firms are advancing a proposal that would require all Massachusetts public schools to teach computer science to help reduce their reliance on foreign workers to fill future programming and engineering jobs.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Companies_Call_for_Tech_Classes_in_Massachusetts_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_Streamline_Louisianas_High_School_Diplomas.htmlSpeaking at a recent town hall meeting, Louisiana Superintendent of Education John White proposed streamlining the state's high school education to ensure students are better prepared for high-wage, high-growth jobs.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_Streamline_Louisianas_High_School_Diplomas.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standards_Lead_to_Success.htmlKentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday says the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), which were adopted in 2010 as the Kentucky Core Academic Standards, have offered a number of positives for students.Sat, 01 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standards_Lead_to_Success.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kan_School_Board_Approves_New_Science_Standards.htmlThe Kansas Board of Education has approved new multistate science standards for public schools. The standards will ensure students in K-12 engage in hands-on projects and experiments and that curriculum blends in material about engineering and technology.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kan_School_Board_Approves_New_Science_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Iowa_Poll_Most_Think_Reforms_Will_Benefit_Students.htmlSixty-one percent of Iowa residents who responded to a poll regarding education reforms passed recently by Gov. Terry Granstad believe the reforms will improve achievement to some degree. The initiatives include raising starting salaries and adding new leadership positions for teachers.Sun, 09 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Iowa_Poll_Most_Think_Reforms_Will_Benefit_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Students_Show_Gains_on_End-of-Course_Exams.htmlPassing rates for the FCAT test among Florida students were stable, but performance on end-of-course exams improved, results that Florida Education Commissioner Tony Bennett calls a "mixed bag."Fri, 07 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Students_Show_Gains_on_End-of-Course_Exams.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Budget_Gives_Schools_Money_for_Common_Core_Standards.htmlCalifornia's budget compromise not only revises how schools receive money but also will give them additional funding to implement new education standards.Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Budget_Gives_Schools_Money_for_Common_Core_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Local_and_State_Flexiblity_to_Use_Federal_Funding_for_College_and_Career_Ready_Standards_Implementation.htmlCCSSO will be hosting a webinar on Tuesday, July 9th at 3pm ET that explores local and state flexibility in the use of federal funds for college and career ready standards.Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Local_and_State_Flexiblity_to_Use_Federal_Funding_for_College_and_Career_Ready_Standards_Implementation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Separating_Fact_from_Fiction_about_Common_Core_Education_Standards.htmlRecent backlash for the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) on radio talk shows and internet blogs has prompted Renee Schoof of the McLatchy Washington Bureau to examine some of the common misconceptions associated with the Common Core, and address the opposition that has become a “rallying cry” of the Tea Party and other prominent conservatives.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Separating_Fact_from_Fiction_about_Common_Core_Education_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Co-Hosts_Webinar_on_Using_Open_Educational_Resources.htmlCCSSO, iNACOL, SETDA and the NAESP will host a webinar titled Using Open Educational Resources (OER) to Empower Collaborative Learning Communities on Wednesday, June 19 from 4:00-5:00pm, ET.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Co-Hosts_Webinar_on_Using_Open_Educational_Resources.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nations_Graduation_Rate_Nears_a_Milestone.htmlAccording to a new analysis from the Editorial Projects in Education Research Center, the graduation rate for America's public schools in 2010 was close to 75 percent, rising nearly two full percentage points from the previous year and eight points in the last decade.Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nations_Graduation_Rate_Nears_a_Milestone.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Senate_Introduces_No_Child_Left_Behind_Successor.htmlU.S. Senate Education Committee Chair Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) introduced a bill that would replace the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law with requirements that states adopt their own standards, a move that is underway in 37 states granted waivers from the U.S. Department of Education.Tue, 04 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Senate_Introduces_No_Child_Left_Behind_Successor.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_York_to_Evaluate_Teachers_With_New_System.htmlNew York State Education Commissioner John King, Jr., has imposed a new teacher evaluation system on New York City schools to bring the district into compliance with state law.Sun, 02 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_York_to_Evaluate_Teachers_With_New_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Teachers_Should_B_Ready_for_Tougher_Standards.htmlNew Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf has proposed regulations to require would-be teachers to have a college grade point average of 3.0, or the equivalent of a B average.Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Teachers_Should_B_Ready_for_Tougher_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Touts_New_State_Tests.htmlMassachusetts Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester is touting the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) tests that will replace the MCAS beginning in the 2015-16 school year.Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Touts_New_State_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Kentucky_Academic_Standards_for_Science_Advance_Despite_Critics.htmlThe Kentucky Board of Education has approved new academic science standards for public education, including updates on evolution and climate change. The new standards will ask middle and high school students to consider human impacts on weather.Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Kentucky_Academic_Standards_for_Science_Advance_Despite_Critics.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Sees_Strong_Growth_in_Graduation_Rates_Report_Says.htmlFlorida's graduation rate climbed 23 percentage points from 2000 to 2010 and currently stands at 72.9 percent, according to Education Week's Diplomas Count report. Its graduation rate for Hispanic students is nine points higher than the national rate at 77.1 percent.Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Sees_Strong_Growth_in_Graduation_Rates_Report_Says.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Science_Standards_Could_Be_in_Store_for_Alabama_Schools.htmlWith the adoption of the Common Core State Standards, states are now turning to the new Next Generation Science Standards. Alabama Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice says, "Are we going to look at those standards? Absolutely, we are."Wed, 05 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Science_Standards_Could_Be_in_Store_for_Alabama_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Now_Open_for_2013_CCSSO_Summer_Institute.htmlCCSSO’s 2013 Summer Institute, Leading toward State Education Agencies of the Future, will provide chiefs and deputies with an exciting opportunity to engage in shared learning.Tue, 04 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_Now_Open_for_2013_CCSSO_Summer_Institute.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Gear_Up_for_Science_Standards.htmlThe Next Generation Science Standards were finalized in April, and teachers across the United States have been working to integrate them into classroom instruction.Tue, 28 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teachers_Gear_Up_for_Science_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_Common_Core_Requires_Flexibility_Not_a_Pause.htmlThe Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) has said the states have all the power they need to smooth out the transition between No Child Left Behind and the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).Tue, 28 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_Common_Core_Requires_Flexibility_Not_a_Pause.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/QandA_NY_Education_Commissioner_on_New_Curriculum_Standards.htmlNew York Education Commissioner John King, Jr., stands behind the state's adoption of the Common Core State Standards as a means of improving academic standards and raising graduation requirements.Sun, 26 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/QandA_NY_Education_Commissioner_on_New_Curriculum_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Local_Schools_See_Increase_in_State_Writing_Scores.htmlData released by the Nebraska Department of Education show that writing test scores for the state's eighth- and 11th-graders improved this year. The department publicly released the writing test scores as part of the Nebraska State Accountability Writing Assessment (NeSA).Sun, 26 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Local_Schools_See_Increase_in_State_Writing_Scores.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Luna_Talks_About_Core_Standards_and_Its_Future.htmlIdaho Superintendent of Schools Tom Luna says, "Our goal is that by 2016 we want 60 percent of our adult population in Idaho to have some form of post high school degree of certification. Today that number is 34 percent."Mon, 27 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Luna_Talks_About_Core_Standards_and_Its_Future.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_State_Schools_Chief_Tom_Torlakson_Encourages_Taking_an_Early_Look_at_New_Online_Smarter_Balanced_Practice_Tests.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says students, educators, and parents should check out the Smarter Balanced Practice Tests (available here) to acquaint themselves with the computer-based assessments that will be taken by students in the 2014-15 school year.Wed, 29 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_State_Schools_Chief_Tom_Torlakson_Encourages_Taking_an_Early_Look_at_New_Online_Smarter_Balanced_Practice_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Health_and_Human_Services_Encourages_States_to_Apply_for_Safe_SchoolsHealthy_Students_Grants.htmlThe Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services is accepting applications for the FY 2013 Safe Schools/Healthy Students State Planning, Local Education Agency, and Local Community Cooperative Agreements.Tue, 04 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Department_of_Health_and_Human_Services_Encourages_States_to_Apply_for_Safe_SchoolsHealthy_Students_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Institute_of_Education_Sciences_Accepting_Applications_for_Common_Core_Implementation_Study.htmlThe Institute of Education Sciences is encouraging applications to study the Common Core State Standards, within the Continuous Improvement Education Research topic of the Partnerships and Collaborations Focused on Problems of Practice or Policy program.Tue, 04 Jun 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Institute_of_Education_Sciences_Accepting_Applications_for_Common_Core_Implementation_Study.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_the_US_21st_Century_Skills_Linked_to_Work_Success.htmlA survey of 1,014 young adults ages 18 to 35 who are either employed or students reveals that those who developed 21st century skills in their last year of school are more likely to self-report higher work quality.Thu, 30 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_the_US_21st_Century_Skills_Linked_to_Work_Success.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common-Core_Tests_in_Works_for_Students_With_Severe_Disabilities.htmlThe Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium and the Partnership for the Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers are working on alternate, Common Core State Standards (CCSS) assessments for students with cognitive disabilities.Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common-Core_Tests_in_Works_for_Students_With_Severe_Disabilities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_Group_No_Moratorium_on_Common-Core_Stakes.htmlIn a letter to U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan, the state education chiefs belonging to Chiefs for Change urged him not to delay accountability measures associated with the Common Core State Standards.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_Group_No_Moratorium_on_Common-Core_Stakes.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Board_of_Education_Has_a_Lot_on_Its_Plate_With_Wave_of_New_Reforms.htmlThe South Dakota Board of Education met to discuss a range of new reforms that include new curriculum standards, a new standardized test, school accountability models, and new methods for teacher and principal evaluations.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Board_of_Education_Has_a_Lot_on_Its_Plate_With_Wave_of_New_Reforms.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/John_King_Promotes_Common_Core_Standards_to_Business_Leaders.htmlAddressing the Rochester Business Alliance on May 23, New York Education Commissioner John King, Jr., said the local business community will benefit from the Common Core State Standards.Thu, 23 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/John_King_Promotes_Common_Core_Standards_to_Business_Leaders.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Transformation_of_Education_Taking_Place_at_Hawaiis_Public_Schools.htmlHawaii Superintendent of Education Kathryn Matayoshi says the state's education system is being transformed, and the effort began with a four-year, $75 million federal Race to the Top grant in 2010.Wed, 22 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Transformation_of_Education_Taking_Place_at_Hawaiis_Public_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DoDEA_Corps_of_Engineers_Partner_for_Education.htmlThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) have forged a partnership to advance STEM education at DoDEA elementary and secondary schools worldwide.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DoDEA_Corps_of_Engineers_Partner_for_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Things_Looking_Up_for_Connecticuts_Education_Reform_Program.htmlConnecticut Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor said that he is confident much of the education reform money cut from Gov. Dannel Malloy's 2013-15 budget proposal will be restored.Sat, 18 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Things_Looking_Up_for_Connecticuts_Education_Reform_Program.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Hawaii_West_Virginia_Win_NCLB_Waivers.htmlU.S. Secretary of Education has awarded Alaska, Hawaii and West Virginia NCLB waivers. In total, Secretary Duncan has now awarded waivers to 37 states.Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Hawaii_West_Virginia_Win_NCLB_Waivers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CAEP_Seeks_Volunteers_to_Serve_on_Teacher_Accreditation_Governance_Committees.htmlThe Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the new national accreditor for educator preparation, is seeking volunteers to serve on its governance committees.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CAEP_Seeks_Volunteers_to_Serve_on_Teacher_Accreditation_Governance_Committees.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCES_Announces_the_2014_NAEP_State_Ambassador_Program.htmlThe National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has announced the establishment of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) State Ambassador program.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NCES_Announces_the_2014_NAEP_State_Ambassador_Program.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Special_Education_Office_Aims_to_Revise_Monitoring_Focus.htmlThe Federal Office of Special Education programs has proposed a revised reporting system that would place the focus on student performance as well as procedural compliance.Tue, 14 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Special_Education_Office_Aims_to_Revise_Monitoring_Focus.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conservatives_and_the_Common_Core.htmlSol Stern, author of "Breaking Free: Public School Lessons and the Imperative of School Choice," and Joel Klein, CEO of Amplify and former chancellor of the New York City public schools, consider the Commons Core State Standards to be "one of the most promising education initiatives of the past half century" and believe all Americans should support them.Mon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conservatives_and_the_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Supporters_Firing_Back.htmlCommon Core State Standards (CCSS) supporters are moving to confront opposition at the state and national levels through public relations and advertising campaigns intended to combat misinformation. All but four states have adopted the standards, and those that have adopted them are on track when it comes to implementation.Wed, 15 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Supporters_Firing_Back.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DPI_Releases_Public_Reports_on_Educator_Effectiveness.htmlThe North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has released the summary results of teacher and administrator evaluation systems for the 2010-11 and 2011-12 school years, which can be accessed through the Educator Effectiveness Database by clicking here here.Mon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DPI_Releases_Public_Reports_on_Educator_Effectiveness.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/AP_Classes_Eyed_for_Inclusion_in_PSS_Online_Program.htmlRita Sablan, Saipan's Education Commissioner, announced plans to expand the Public School System's (PSS) advanced placement (AP) program to let participating high school students complete their courses at the time and place they wish.Thu, 16 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/AP_Classes_Eyed_for_Inclusion_in_PSS_Online_Program.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Law_Ramps_Up_Technical_Education.htmlKentucky Gov. Steve Beshear signed House Bill 207 into law, uniting the state's two Career and Technical Education (CTE) systems under the guidance of Kentucky's Department of Education to ensure a more unified, relevant, and efficient system to educate and prepare students for the working world in a real-life setting.Thu, 16 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Law_Ramps_Up_Technical_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/What_Tests_Will_Replace_FCAT_Florida_to_Decide_by_June.htmlFlorida Education Commissioner Tony Bennett says that by the end of June, he and his staff will decide what tests will be used to replace the FCAT exams that the state plans to retire. The switch to the new tests will be aligned to the new Common Core standards scheduled to take effect in the 2014-15 school year.Wed, 15 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/What_Tests_Will_Replace_FCAT_Florida_to_Decide_by_June.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Baesler_Says_North_Dakota_Needs_More_STEM_Education.htmlNorth Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler says more STEM schools and a strategy to integrate STEM into high schools are needed in the state.Wed, 08 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Baesler_Says_North_Dakota_Needs_More_STEM_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Revising_Standards_for_Early_Childhood_Education.htmlMissouri is pushing to promote early childhood education by revising its early learning standards to clarify the expectations for programs serving students under age 5.Sun, 05 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Missouri_Revising_Standards_for_Early_Childhood_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisiana_School_Head_John_White_Calls_for_Federal_Streamlining.htmlLouisiana Education Superintendent John White testified during a U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee hearing and said that states must be held accountable for how their school systems perform, but they also need greater flexibility to design the best programs for students.Wed, 08 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisiana_School_Head_John_White_Calls_for_Federal_Streamlining.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Hawaii_Public_School_Students_Gearing_Up_for_College.htmlHawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education and the State Department of Education have issued College and Career Readiness Indicators reports that show improvements among public school students throughout the college-readiness pipeline.Wed, 08 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Hawaii_Public_School_Students_Gearing_Up_for_College.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Leaves_No_Child_Left_Behind.htmlGeorgia Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Barge recently unveiled the state's new accountability system, the Georgia College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), which will replace No Child Left Behind's Adequate Yearly Progress measurement.Tue, 07 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Leaves_No_Child_Left_Behind.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Assembly_Committee_Approves_New_Testing_System.htmlLegislation sponsored by California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson was approved by the Assembly Education Committee and sent to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration. Assembly Bill 484 would establish the California Measurement of Academic Performance and Progress for the 21st Century to replace the Standardized Testing and Reporting system.Sat, 04 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Assembly_Committee_Approves_New_Testing_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vocational_Training_on_the_Rise_But_Cant_Keep_Up_With_Demand.htmlWhile more Arizona high school students are receiving training for technical jobs, ranging from culinary arts to health occupations, growth is not happening quickly enough to fill jobs at some businesses.Fri, 03 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vocational_Training_on_the_Rise_But_Cant_Keep_Up_With_Demand.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Supporting_State_Efforts_to_Collectively_Pilot_New_Technologies.htmlCCSSO has a long-standing tradition of supporting states that are ready and willing to engage collectively and individually in emerging work and practices. Together with teachers, parents, and education advocates, we collectively believe that in order to raise achievement, schools should provide students with learning experiences tailored to their needs that make the most of teachers' time with them. To accomplish this, we must make personalized learning a reality for every student.Thu, 09 May 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Supporting_State_Efforts_to_Collectively_Pilot_New_Technologies.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Host_Communications_Directors_and_Common_Core_Policy_Leads_in_New_Orleans.htmlCCSSO will host the Communications Directors Network and Implementing the Common Core Standards meetings next week in New Orleans, Louisiana.Tue, 07 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_to_Host_Communications_Directors_and_Common_Core_Policy_Leads_in_New_Orleans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Why_I_Support_the_Common_Core_Reading_Standards.htmlAfter attending a two-day conference with David Coleman, president of the College Board and chief architect of the Common Core State Standards, Liberty University English professor Karen Prior was no longer skeptical of the standards' potential to boost literacy and improve reading skills among U.S. grade-school students.Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Why_I_Support_the_Common_Core_Reading_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Virginia_Receives_High_Marks_for_Pre-Kindergarten_Support.htmlWest Virginia was recognized for its efforts to increase pre-kindergarten resources in the National Institute for Early Education Research's "State of Preschool 2012" report. The state increased per pupil pre-K funding by $10 million in 2011-12 to about $6,000 per child, compared to the national average of $3,841.Thu, 02 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Virginia_Receives_High_Marks_for_Pre-Kindergarten_Support.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Proponent_Calls_Common_Core_the_Great_Equalizer_of_Education.htmlThe Pennsylvania Department of Education stresses that the Common Core State Standards are academic standards -- not a curriculum -- that aim to prepare students to succeed in higher education or the workforce. "Look at it as if the state standards are what you need to know to cross the goal line," says spokesman Tim Eller.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Proponent_Calls_Common_Core_the_Great_Equalizer_of_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Las_Cruces_School_Will_Pave_Way_for_Study_of_Health_Sciences.htmlLas Cruces educators and state officials broke ground on New Mexico's first medical and allied healthcare early college high school, which will be an expansion of the Arrowhead Park Early College High School, located at the southeast end of the New Mexico State University campus.Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Las_Cruces_School_Will_Pave_Way_for_Study_of_Health_Sciences.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/LePage_Bowen_Unveil_New_Grading_System_for_Public_Schools.htmlIn his State of the State Address, Maine Gov. Paul LePage unveiled a new grading system for the state's public schools, each of which will receive their own A-F letter grade. For elementary schools, math and reading proficiency -- measured by standardized assessments and progress -- will be equally weighted to determine a grade.Wed, 01 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/LePage_Bowen_Unveil_New_Grading_System_for_Public_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Advances_Announced_for_the_States_Scholarship_Program.htmlThe Louisiana Department of Education reports that it has matched close to 8,000 students with the schools of their choice through the Louisiana Scholarship Program, with the number of scholarships offered up almost 3,000 over last year.Wed, 01 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Advances_Announced_for_the_States_Scholarship_Program.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/16_Schools_Honored_by_Illinois_State_Board_of_Education.htmlThe Illinois State Board of Education recognized a total of 624 schools with Illinois Honor Roll awards. The awards are given to schools with high poverty rates that have overcome the odds, those that have achieved high-performance scores for three straight years, and those with improvement ratings of 7.5 percent in one year or 15 percent in two years.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/16_Schools_Honored_by_Illinois_State_Board_of_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Tom_Torlakson_Announces_Public_Comment_Period_Open_on_New_Common_Core_Math_Framework.htmlThe draft Mathematics Framework for California Public Schools, Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, has been released for public comment through June 20, 2013, moving the state closer to implementing the Common Core State Standards for math.Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Schools_Chief_Tom_Torlakson_Announces_Public_Comment_Period_Open_on_New_Common_Core_Math_Framework.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Research_Bulletin_Highlights_Crosswalk_Between_the_Common_Core_and_the_Arts.htmlThe Arts Education Partnership (AEP) has released a new research bulletin titled Preparing Students for the Next America: The Benefits of an Arts Education. The bulletin offers a snapshot of how arts education can greatly enhance literacy and mathematics skills, while ensuring a competitive and comprehensive education for every young person in America.Tue, 21 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Research_Bulletin_Highlights_Crosswalk_Between_the_Common_Core_and_the_Arts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Student_Achievement_Partners_Announces_Website_Upgrade.htmlOn Monday, April 29, Student Achievement Partners has announced an upgrade of their website, www.achievethecore.org.Tue, 07 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Student_Achievement_Partners_Announces_Website_Upgrade.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Statement_on_AFT_President_Randi_Weingarten_Speech.htmlIn response to a speech given today by AFT President Randi Weingarten, CCSSO Executive Director Chris Minnich offered the following statement.Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Statement_on_AFT_President_Randi_Weingarten_Speech.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ringstaff_Common_Core_Has_Awesome_Prospects.htmlOfficials in Tennessee have formed a 22-member State Leadership Council to help the state transition to the Common Core Standards, which are meant to ensure that high school students in participating states -- so far, 45 states and the District of Columbia are on board -- are learning the same information and are equally prepared for graduation.Sun, 21 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ringstaff_Common_Core_Has_Awesome_Prospects.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Why_Common_Core_Makes_Common_Sense.htmlJeff Roper, an English teacher at Declo High School in Declo, Idaho, discredits claims by critics that the Common Core State Standards initiative amounts to a federal takeover of local schools, stressing that the standards were created by state education departments, national business leaders, and an assortment of education experts, including teachers and national education reform leaders.Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Why_Common_Core_Makes_Common_Sense.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_Implementing_New_System_to_Identify_Students_at_Risk_of_Dropping_Out_of_School.htmlThe New Mexico Public Education Department will implement an early warning system to help schools identify students at risk of dropping out.Thu, 18 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_Implementing_New_System_to_Identify_Students_at_Risk_of_Dropping_Out_of_School.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Adopts_New_Social_Studies_Standards.htmlMinnesota Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius and Gov. Mark Dayton have approved the new social studies standards developed and unanimously approved by a committee of 46 K-12 and post-secondary educators, business and government representatives, and parents.Tue, 16 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Adopts_New_Social_Studies_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisiana_Education_Head_Teachers_Will_Get_More_Autonomy.htmlDuring the recent Teacher Leaders Kickoff Event, Louisiana Department of Education Superintendent John White said the state will provide teachers with more resources and greater flexibility to make individual changes to meet student needs.Thu, 18 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Louisiana_Education_Head_Teachers_Will_Get_More_Autonomy.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_Partners_With_National_Group_to_Engage_Teachers.htmlThe Kentucky Department of Education is among the state agencies and organizations to partner with the national nonprofit Hope Street Group to engage teachers in the implementation of the state's Professional Growth and Effectiveness System.Thu, 11 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_Partners_With_National_Group_to_Engage_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/6_Georgia_Schools_to_Begin_Dual-Language_Programs.htmlSix elementary schools in Georgia have been awarded $15,000 in start-up grants to support dual-language immersion programs next year, and State Superintendent of Schools John Barge says the state has set a goal of having 20 dual-immersion language programs by 2020.Sat, 20 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/6_Georgia_Schools_to_Begin_Dual-Language_Programs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Joins_Student_Assessment_Consortium.htmlAlaska has joined the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium, says the State Department of Education and Early Development.Sun, 21 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Joins_Student_Assessment_Consortium.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Washington_State_High_School_Physics_Chemistry_and_Engineering_Teacher_Jeff_Charbonneau_Named_National_Teacher_of_the_Year.htmlOn Monday, April 22, CCSSO announced that Jeff Charbonneau, a 9-12th grade Chemistry, Physics and Engineering teacher in the state of Washington, is the 63rd National Teacher of the Year. Charbonneau, along with all 2013 State Teachers of the Year, will be recognized by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House, on Tuesday, April 23.Mon, 22 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Washington_State_High_School_Physics_Chemistry_and_Engineering_Teacher_Jeff_Charbonneau_Named_National_Teacher_of_the_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_and_America’s_Promise_Alliance_Hosting_a_Webinar_on_Connecting_Common_Core_with_Expanded_Learning_Opportunities.htmlCCSSO and America’s Promise Alliance will host a webinar exploring ways that Expanded Learning Opportunities, like afterschool and summer school programs, can help students achieve under the Common Core State Standards.Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_and_America’s_Promise_Alliance_Hosting_a_Webinar_on_Connecting_Common_Core_with_Expanded_Learning_Opportunities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Moving_Ahead_With_Common_Core.htmlAccording to a recent New York Times editorial, parents of New York students should not be nervous or angry about the assessments being used to assess Common Core achievement among students because they are meant to improve student reasoning skills.Sun, 21 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Moving_Ahead_With_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_500_Million_From_Race_to_Top_to_Fund_Early_Learning_District_Ideas.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education will dole out another $490 million in Race to the Top grants in fiscal 2013. Around $120 million will be awarded as part of the second round of the Race to the Top district competition.Tue, 16 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_500_Million_From_Race_to_Top_to_Fund_Early_Learning_District_Ideas.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Initiative_Aims_to_Boost_College_Grads_in_Northern_Maine.htmlMaine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen recently unveiled the Aroostook Aspirations Initiative to encourage students to attend college.Fri, 12 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Initiative_Aims_to_Boost_College_Grads_in_Northern_Maine.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Signs_Comprehensive_Teacher_Principal_Effectiveness_System_Bill_into_Law.htmlKentucky Gov. Steve Beshear signed House Bill 180 into law, which will put into place a statewide evaluation system to ensure each school and district has highly effective teachers and administrators, taking into account student growth data and other measures of effectiveness and promoting continuous professional growth and skills development.Tue, 16 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_Signs_Comprehensive_Teacher_Principal_Effectiveness_System_Bill_into_Law.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Special_Needs_Students_Should_Be_Included.htmlGuam Department of Education Superintendent Jon Fernandez says just complying with federal law regarding the education needs of disabled students is not enough and that additional effort is needed to mainstream students with disabilities.Tue, 16 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Special_Needs_Students_Should_Be_Included.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Results_of_Delaware_Teacher_Survey_Released.htmlThe first statewide Teaching, Empowering, Leading and Learning (TELL) Survey of more than 6,000 Delaware teachers and other education workers found that 80 percent believe their schools are good places to work and learn, but only 77 percent plan to stay at their current school.Thu, 11 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Results_of_Delaware_Teacher_Survey_Released.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guidelines_Aim_to_Improve_Teacher_Preparation.htmlThe Connecticut Board of Education has adopted recommendations to create stronger teacher preparation programs.Mon, 15 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Guidelines_Aim_to_Improve_Teacher_Preparation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alabama_Adopts_Common_Core_Testing_for_Students.htmlThe Alabama Board of Education recently approved the ACT Aspire standardized test as a way to measure student progress in grades 3-8, and the test will be administered in August 2013.Fri, 12 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alabama_Adopts_Common_Core_Testing_for_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_Common_Core_–_Friend_or_Foe.htmlHigh school teacher Jessica Keigan says Common Core presents an opportunity to transform teaching and learning. She says the standards provide a number of opportunities for collaboration, including the use of virtual networks like the Center for Teaching Quality's Collaboratory.Wed, 03 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_Common_Core_–_Friend_or_Foe.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_York_State_Education_Commissioner_Announces_Release_of_Common_Core_Video_Resource.htmlNew York State Education Commissioner John B. King, Jr. has announced the release of the latest video in the state’s ongoing Common Core Assessment Video Series.Mon, 15 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_York_State_Education_Commissioner_Announces_Release_of_Common_Core_Video_Resource.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Science_Standards_Make_Formal_Debut.htmlThe Next Generation Science Standards, publicly unveiled on April 9, will reshape the focus and delivery of science instruction in U.S. schools by emphasizing depth over breadth, providing students with a foundation of essential knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge through scientific inquiry and the engineering and design process.Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Science_Standards_Make_Formal_Debut.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Common_Core_Tests_Harder_Require_Higher-Level_Thinking_Skills.htmlOn April 4, New York Education Commissioner John King Jr., described the new tests for English Language Arts (ELA) and math that students in grades 3-8 will take as challenging. He said the new assessments will require students to engage in deeper analysis of written texts and demonstrate a thorough understanding of math concepts.Fri, 05 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Common_Core_Tests_Harder_Require_Higher-Level_Thinking_Skills.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Education_Chief_Wants_to_Make_All_Districts_Not_Just_Local_Ones_Responsible_for_Charter_School_Funding.htmlMaine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen has unveiled the framework of a program to fund charter schools that would spread the financial responsibility to every school district in the state.Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_Education_Chief_Wants_to_Make_All_Districts_Not_Just_Local_Ones_Responsible_for_Charter_School_Funding.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/WTHS_Grant_Invests_in_Future_Business_Leaders.htmlIn Massachusetts, 10 high schools have received $20,000 grants to create a pilot financial literacy program for the 2013-14 school year.Sat, 06 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/WTHS_Grant_Invests_in_Future_Business_Leaders.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ritz_Touts_Early_Childhood_Programs_at_Fair.htmlIndiana Superintendent of Public Education Glenda Ritz said recently that she supports early childhood education, even though the state is only one of 11 without dedicated funding for preschool. About 50 percent of Indiana's students start kindergarten without any early childhood education.Sat, 06 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Ritz_Touts_Early_Childhood_Programs_at_Fair.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standards_State_Test_for_Students.htmlSpeaking at the Cape Henlopen School District's recent board of education meeting, Delaware Education Secretary Mark Murphy discussed the state's implementation of the Common Core State Standards. "This work defines a path for our students and educators to have success," he said.Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standards_State_Test_for_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_District_Graduation_Rates_Improve.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says the graduation rate for students who started high school in 2008 and graduated in 2012 was 78.5 percent, up 1.4 percent from the previous year.Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_District_Graduation_Rates_Improve.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_School_District_Wants_Project_Based_Learning_to_Outshine_Testing.htmlA public school district in Danville, KY, has shifted its focus from traditional assessments and is encouraging the instructional approach of project-based learning, an example of a growing number of schools and districts looking to spend less time on testing, and more on deeper learning.Wed, 03 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kentucky_School_District_Wants_Project_Based_Learning_to_Outshine_Testing.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Truth_about_Common_Core_.htmlHere’s what the Common Core State Standards do: They simply delineate what children should know at each grade level and describe the skills that they must acquire to stay on course toward college or career readiness. They are not a curriculum; it’s up to school districts to choose curricula that comply with the standards. The Fordham Institute has carefully examined Common Core and compared it with existing state standards: It found that for most states, Common Core is a great improvement with regard to rigor and cohesiveness.Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Truth_about_Common_Core_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conspiracy_Theories_About_Common_Core_Should_Be_Ignored.htmlThis Oklahoman editorial says theories that the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) initiative is federal interference in education are wrong, as the standards were created by governors and state education officials with the help of the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers as part of an effort to establish a single set of clear, rigorous educational standards for K-12 in English language arts and mathematics.Mon, 01 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Conspiracy_Theories_About_Common_Core_Should_Be_Ignored.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Selects_More_Than_700_Teachers_to_Help_Lead_Common_Core_Transition.htmlMore than 700 teachers have been selected by the Tennessee Department of Education to help their peers transition to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) by leading five weeks of summer training sessions for math, English/language arts, and literacy standards.Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tennessee_Selects_More_Than_700_Teachers_to_Help_Lead_Common_Core_Transition.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Hampshire_Dropout_Rate_Remains_Low.htmlThe dropout rate among New Hampshire high school students inched up slightly to 1.26 for the 2011-12 academic year, up from 1.19 percent in 2010-11 and 0.97 percent in 2009-10.Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Hampshire_Dropout_Rate_Remains_Low.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Revised_Teacher_Evaluation_Regulations_Decrease_Test_Scores_Weight.htmlNew Jersey's tenure law was modified by state education officials to reduce the role of standardized test scores in annual teacher evaluations. Test scores will now count for no more than 35 percent of teacher evaluations, down from up to 50 percent for fourth through eighth grade teachers.Thu, 04 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Revised_Teacher_Evaluation_Regulations_Decrease_Test_Scores_Weight.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Worker_Skills_Shortage_Starts_in_High_School.htmlCareer-counseling and shop classes have decreased in Minnesota high schools, contributing to what higher education officials and employers call a skills gap.Mon, 01 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Worker_Skills_Shortage_Starts_in_High_School.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Signs_Agreement_With_France_to_Promote_K-12_Educational_Opportunities.htmlA memorandum of understanding signed April 1 by Kansas Education Commissioner Diane DeBacker and Académie d’Orléans-Tours Recteur Marie Reynier aims to establish cooperative programs to teach French in K-12 classrooms in Kansas and English in classrooms in the region southwest of Paris, France.Mon, 01 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Signs_Agreement_With_France_to_Promote_K-12_Educational_Opportunities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Hopes_to_Lead_in_Digitizing_Classrooms.htmlThe Alaska Department of Education and Early Development has proposed the Alaska 1-to-1 Digital Technology Initiative, which would distribute tablet computers to every student over a period of four years.Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Alaska_Hopes_to_Lead_in_Digitizing_Classrooms.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_to_Meet_with_Chinese_Policy_Leaders_in_Boston.htmlChiefs and state policy makers from 14 states are scheduled to participate in the US-CHINA Policy Leaders Dialogue: Quality and Equity for All, held April 7 - 9, 2013, in Boston, Massachusetts.Tue, 02 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_to_Meet_with_Chinese_Policy_Leaders_in_Boston.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginia_Board_of_Education_Approves_Graduation_Requirements_for_Special_Education_Students.htmlThe Virginia Board of Education has adopted revised high school graduation standards for students with disabilities so that they can remain on track to earn diplomas, even as the state eliminates the Modified Standard Diploma.Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Virginia_Board_of_Education_Approves_Graduation_Requirements_for_Special_Education_Students.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standardized_Test_in_for_2014-2015.htmlRhode Island Education Commissioner Deborah Gist says the new Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test, which could replace the NECAP exam in the 2014-15 school year as the state's standardized test, will prepare high school students for life after school.Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Standardized_Test_in_for_2014-2015.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hybrid_Learning_Ahead_Says_Pennsylvania_Department_of_Education_Secretary_Tomalis.htmlPennsylvania Education Secretary Ronald Tomalis says the Internet ultimately will enable schools to tailor education to the individual needs of students.Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hybrid_Learning_Ahead_Says_Pennsylvania_Department_of_Education_Secretary_Tomalis.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SIG_Funds_Designated_for_Buffalo_Schools.htmlThe New York State Education Department will provide $22.5 million in School Improvement Grants (SIGs) to the Buffalo City School District.Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SIG_Funds_Designated_for_Buffalo_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DESE_Commissioner_Says_New_Common_Core_Standards_Will_Help_Prepare_Students_for_College.htmlThe Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has introduced new Common Core State Standards (CCSS) to establish consistent learning goals for all students and better prepare them for college.Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DESE_Commissioner_Says_New_Common_Core_Standards_Will_Help_Prepare_Students_for_College.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Proposed_Changes_to_Teacher_Evaluation_Procedures_Unveiled.htmlGuam's Department of Education (DOE) recently issued a draft policy to update the teacher evaluation process. The proposed evaluation system would include student academic growth, as well as teacher observation done by administrators.Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Proposed_Changes_to_Teacher_Evaluation_Procedures_Unveiled.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Education_Officials_to_Meet_With_S_Korean_Leaders_to_Formalize_Culture_Exchange_Program.htmlGeorgia Schools Superintendent John Barge signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korean Vice Minister of Education Ha Tae-Yun on March 25 to create a cultural exchange program.Sun, 24 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Georgia_Education_Officials_to_Meet_With_S_Korean_Leaders_to_Formalize_Culture_Exchange_Program.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_School_Standards_Available_in_Spanish.htmlCalifornia Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says the Common Core State Standards in English-language arts have been released in Spanish.Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_School_Standards_Available_in_Spanish.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Publication_on_High_School_Graduation_Rates.htmlCCSSO has released a new publication titled “High School Graduation: State Policies Driving Transparency and Success.” The report describes recent state actions aimed at ensuring all students graduate from high school college-and career-ready, and policy issues such as graduation rate calculations, accountability, and state data systemsTue, 26 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Publication_on_High_School_Graduation_Rates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Setting_the_State_Stage_for_Improved_Teacher_Preparation.htmlEducator-preparation policy is important to student learning by preparing educators ahead of time for the tough work ahead. In most states, education authority is within the department of education, but legislatures often make laws that deal with education, leaving the finer points of teacher preparation and credentialing to state education boards.Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Setting_the_State_Stage_for_Improved_Teacher_Preparation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Leader_on_Title_I_Waivers_Common_Core_Tests.htmlDuring a recent legislative conference, Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) Executive Director Chris Minnich said the group will make a long-term argument about the value of investments in public schools and that state education leaders will not panic over budgetary issues tied to sequestration.Tue, 19 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Leader_on_Title_I_Waivers_Common_Core_Tests.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_Common_Core_Teachers_See_Interdisciplinary_Opportunities.htmlTeachers increasingly are turning to interdisciplinary thematic units as they implement the Common Core State Standards in English language arts. The standards require students beginning in fifth grade to read more nonfiction than fiction, but the required percentages for nonfiction "reflect the sum of student reading, not just reading in ELA settings."Wed, 13 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/In_Common_Core_Teachers_See_Interdisciplinary_Opportunities.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Demonstrates_Continuing_Value_of_Preschool_for_New_Jerseys_Poorest_Kids.htmlAccording to a recent National Institute for Early Education Research report that tracked 1,000 preschool students in 15 poor districts in New Jersey, by the time students attending pre-K programs in the poorest cities reached fourth or fifth grade, they were an average of three-quarters of an academic year ahead of their peers who did not attend pre-K.Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Report_Demonstrates_Continuing_Value_of_Preschool_for_New_Jerseys_Poorest_Kids.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Is_Partnering_With_Microsoft_to_Expose_Everyone_to_Technology.htmlNorth Dakota has partnered with Microsoft for a groundbreaking program to help students with college readiness and learn 21st century skills. Under the program, Microsoft has agreed to offer free programs to North Dakota classrooms that focus on science and technology.Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Is_Partnering_With_Microsoft_to_Expose_Everyone_to_Technology.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Gets_New_High_School_Equivalency_Exam.htmlMontana education officials have contracted with Educational Testing Service (ETS) to create a new high school equivalency exam that will replace the General Education Development tests due to an increase in the test price to $120 from $55 by next year.Tue, 19 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Gets_New_High_School_Equivalency_Exam.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Superintendent_John_White_Announces_Plan_to_Replace_Louisianas_Failing_Schools.htmlDuring a recent teleconference, Louisiana Superintendent of Education John White unveiled a $5 million grant program called Believe and Succeed to help schools graded as D or F to improve at a more accelerated pace.Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Superintendent_John_White_Announces_Plan_to_Replace_Louisianas_Failing_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Initiative_to_Focus_on_Leadership_in_Hawaiis_Statewide_School_System.htmlThe Hawaii State Board of Education and the State Department of Education (DOE) have created the Leadership Institute, which will be led by Douglas Murata, the DOE's assistant superintendent for the office of human resources, as part of an initiative to focus on developing effective school leadership.Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Initiative_to_Focus_on_Leadership_in_Hawaiis_Statewide_School_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Releases_New_Report_on_Communicating_Assessment_Results_.htmlMetaMetrics President and Co-founder Malbert Smith III, Ph.D., and Director of Professional Development Jason Turner have written a new policy brief focusing on the importance of communication in Common Core implementation.Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Releases_New_Report_on_Communicating_Assessment_Results_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_Perfect_Blend_for_Common_Core.htmlJessica Keigan, a high school English teacher in Thornton, Colo., and a teacher leader with the Center for Teaching Quality, says there are concerns that the Common Core State Standards will force teachers to stop teaching fiction to make room for non-fiction, but she stresses that a focus on "either/or" is not required.Mon, 11 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_Perfect_Blend_for_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Assessment_Group_to_Begin_Testing_Common_Core_Platform.htmlAround 6,000 schools from 23 member states will test online assessment software from the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium through May 2013.Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Assessment_Group_to_Begin_Testing_Common_Core_Platform.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Charlotte_Danielson_on_Teaching_and_the_Common_Core.htmlCharlotte Danielson, creator of the "Framework for Teaching," says under the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), teachers will have to adopt instructional strategies that allow students to explore concepts, discuss them with their peers, and question and challenge their classmates in a respectable manner.Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Charlotte_Danielson_on_Teaching_and_the_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_to_Honor_Blakely_Elementary_and_Other_National_Award-Winning_Schools.htmlTwelve schools in Washington state will be honored by Gov. Jay Inslee and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Randy Dorn for winning national awards through Title I, Part A, of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governor_to_Honor_Blakely_Elementary_and_Other_National_Award-Winning_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_State_Board_of_Education_Meets_for_1st_Time.htmlRhode Island's Board of Governors for Higher Education and the Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education officially merged on March 11 to become The Rhode Island Board of Education.Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_State_Board_of_Education_Meets_for_1st_Time.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Finalizes_Adoption_of_Pennsylvania_Common_Core_State_Academic_Standards_and_High_School_Graduation_Requirements.htmlThe Pennsylvania State Board of Education has adopted new regulations that will implement the Pennsylvania Common Core Standards in English language arts and math in all public schools by July 1, 2013.Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Finalizes_Adoption_of_Pennsylvania_Common_Core_State_Academic_Standards_and_High_School_Graduation_Requirements.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_ACE_Awards_Given_to_188_School_Districts.htmlIn Oklahoma, 188 school districts received the Governor's ACE Award, recognizing those in which 100 percent of seniors in the Class of 2012 completed all graduation requirements.Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_ACE_Awards_Given_to_188_School_Districts.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Joining_National_Effort_to_Boost_Graduation_Rates.htmlMinnesota will join three other states participating in a national effort to bolster graduation rates, known as GradNation, spearheaded by America's Promise Alliance.Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnesota_Joining_National_Effort_to_Boost_Graduation_Rates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Details_Targeted_Support_Spending.htmlMaine Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen outlined a new approach to education spending, deemed targeted education support, just days before the governor's biennial education budget will be revealed.Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Education_Commissioner_Details_Targeted_Support_Spending.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Participates_in_the_Third_Annual_International_Summit_on_the_Teaching_Profession.htmlThe third Annual International Summit on the Teaching Profession, is being held in Amsterdam March 13-14, 2013. This year the focus of the summit is on teacher evaluation and professional standards.Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Participates_in_the_Third_Annual_International_Summit_on_the_Teaching_Profession.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Right_Curriculum_for_Kindergarten_Play.htmlAccording to Harlem Village Academies Founder and Chief Executive Deborah Kenny, upper-income schools were found to focus on active play and crafts in kindergarten, while lower-income schools engaged in regimented academics, reward-and-punishment behavior systems, and top-down instruction.Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/The_Right_Curriculum_for_Kindergarten_Play.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/How_to_Prepare_for_Common_Core_Testing—and_Why_Current_Teacher_Evaluation_Systems_Wont_Help.htmlAt the American Association of School Administrators' National Conference on Education on Feb. 22, Linda Darling-Hammond, the Charles E. Ducommun Professor of Education at Stanford University, talked about the need for high-quality professional development to prepare teachers and students for the next-generation assessments aligned with the Common Core State Standards that are being developed by the Partnership for the Assessment of College and Career Readiness and the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium.Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/How_to_Prepare_for_Common_Core_Testing—and_Why_Current_Teacher_Evaluation_Systems_Wont_Help.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Virginia_Unveils_New_Online_Educational_Tool.htmlIn|Site, an online resource for teachers, students, and administrators, has been launched by the West Virginia Department of Education. The site enables academic and career technical teachers to find instructional resources for classroom use, paves the way for the implementation of cross-curricular projects, and offers learning resources for students.Thu, 07 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Virginia_Unveils_New_Online_Educational_Tool.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Cerf_Goes_Public_About_Student_Test_Scores_and_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlNew Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf recently presented proposed regulations for the state's new teacher evaluation system to the State Board of Education. The proposal indicates that for teachers in grades and subjects evaluated by state tests, 35 percent of their rating in the first year would be tied to student progress on the tests, while 50 percent would be tied to supervisors' evaluations of teacher practice and 15 percent to undefined achievement measures.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Cerf_Goes_Public_About_Student_Test_Scores_and_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NDDPI_Offers_Learning_Center_Grants.htmlNorth Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler announced that her department would begin accepting applications for a three-year grant to expand or establish community learning centers.Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NDDPI_Offers_Learning_Center_Grants.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Businesses_and_Schools_Encouraged_to_Partner.htmlAt a recent luncheon sponsored by the Mooresville – South Iredell Developer’s Council, North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction June Atkinson talked about the importance of businesses and schools working together "on behalf of economic development."Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Businesses_and_Schools_Encouraged_to_Partner.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Tests_for_Massachusetts_Students_on_the_Horizon.htmlMassachusetts is one of 22 states preparing to roll out the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test, an online test aligned with the Common Core State Standards that will replace standardized tests in English language arts and math in the 2014-15 school year.Sun, 03 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Tests_for_Massachusetts_Students_on_the_Horizon.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High-Achieving_Public_Schools_Win_1_Million_Worth_of_Awards.htmlThe Hawaii State Department of Education recently handed out a total of $1 million in Strive HI awards to 32 schools, which each received between $12,500 to $100,000. The awards -- which come from the state's Race to the Top federal grant -- recognize schools that have demonstrated significant academic progress for two consecutive years.Fri, 01 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High-Achieving_Public_Schools_Win_1_Million_Worth_of_Awards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Fernandez_Works_to_Establish_Education_Foundation.htmlAt a March 4 meeting of the Rotary Club of Northern Guam, Guam Department of Education Superintendent Jon Fernandez discussed his plans to establish an education foundation that would offset a shortage in local government funding by allowing businesses and individuals to make donations to the school system.Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Fernandez_Works_to_Establish_Education_Foundation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCC_Releases_Tool_To_Prepare_Schools_and_Districts_for_Rigorous_21st_Century_Assessments.htmlThe Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) has announced a new planning tool and guidance for schools and districts that will help them prepare for new assessments in the 2014-2015 school year.Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/PARCC_Releases_Tool_To_Prepare_Schools_and_Districts_for_Rigorous_21st_Century_Assessments.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wallace_Foundation_Releases_New_Report_on_Cultivating_Great_Principals.htmlThe Wallace Foundation's has released a new 2013 report titled: Districts Matter: Cultivating the Principals Urban Schools Need. According to the report, great principals are key to turning around urban schools and effective school leadership should be cultivated by school districts.Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0000http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wallace_Foundation_Releases_New_Report_on_Cultivating_Great_Principals.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/QandA_Federal_K-12_Policy_Chief_Shares_Outlook.htmlDeborah Delisle, assistant secretary for elementary and secondary education at the U.S. Department of Education, is focusing her attention on altering the way the department interacts with states. "We are designing a very robust technical assistance program to support states," she says.Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/QandA_Federal_K-12_Policy_Chief_Shares_Outlook.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Some_States_on_Pace_to_Hit_90_Percent_High_School_Grad_Rate_by_2020.htmlThe Grad Nation campaign set a goal in 2010 that by 2020, the high school graduation rate would be 90 percent. The coalition's latest report shows that with a four-year graduation rate of 78.2 percent in 2010, the pace of improvement is picking up, and some states could meet that goal sooner if the progress continues.Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Some_States_on_Pace_to_Hit_90_Percent_High_School_Grad_Rate_by_2020.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Students_Prepare_for_Post_NECAPS_World.htmlVermont Education Secretary Armando Vilaseca says Vermont will begin using the Smarter Balance computer-based assessment by the spring of 2015, abandoning the standardized, paper-based NECAPS test. The NECAPS test measures math, reading, and writing skills and tests students using the same set of questions.Sun, 24 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Students_Prepare_for_Post_NECAPS_World.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Oklahoma_Schools_Superintendent_Proposes_Changes_in_States_A-F_School_Grading_System.htmlOklahoma Superintendent Janet Barresi has introduced proposed changes to the A-F school grading system. Under the proposed changes, schools would receive credit for each advanced course a student takes, the school climate survey would be scrapped, and districts would have more time to verify data they send to the state.Sun, 24 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Oklahoma_Schools_Superintendent_Proposes_Changes_in_States_A-F_School_Grading_System.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_High_School_Graduation_Rate_Up_for_Third_Year_in_a_Row.htmlAccording to the Maine Department of Education, the state's four-year graduation rate rose for the third consecutive year, climbing to 85.34 percent in the 2011-12 school year. The rate has climbed almost 5 percent since 2009 and edged up about 1.5 percent over the past year. The graduation rate was 91.5 percent for publicly funded private schools.Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Maine_High_School_Graduation_Rate_Up_for_Third_Year_in_a_Row.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_State_Standards_Headed_for_Louisiana.htmlThe Louisiana Department of Education has launched the interactive online Classroom Support Toolbox on Louisianabelieves.com to help school districts and educators prepare for the implementation of the Common Core State Standards.Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_State_Standards_Headed_for_Louisiana.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Districts_Prepare_for_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlFull implementation of the Common Core State Standards and assessments will begin in the 2014-15 school year, says the Florida Department of Education. Teachers in the state are making sure students are ready for success by incorporating innovative teaching techniques that support the new standards.Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Districts_Prepare_for_Common_Core_State_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_20_Pecent_of_High_Schoolers_in_Concurrent_Enrollment.htmlA report by the Colorado Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Higher Education reveals that 19 percent of the state's high school students took part in dual enrollment programs -- in which they are enrolled in at least one post-secondary level course at the same time as they attend high school -- during the 2011-12 school year.Sun, 24 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nearly_20_Pecent_of_High_Schoolers_in_Concurrent_Enrollment.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Receives_National_Attention_as_a_Pacesetter_for_Its_Statewide_Commitment_in_Addressing_Early_Literacy.htmlAt the Children's Museum of Phoenix, the Arizona Department of Education, the Arizona Head Start State Collaboration Office, and several foundations gathered to celebrate the state's selection as a "pacesetter" by the National Campaign for Grade Level Reading.Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Arizona_Receives_National_Attention_as_a_Pacesetter_for_Its_Statewide_Commitment_in_Addressing_Early_Literacy.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Releases_Policy_Brief_Relating_to_Common_Core_Implementation.htmlMetaMetrics has released a new Policy Brief titled Looking Worse Before We Look Better: Student Performance in a Common Core World. As states move from adoption of the Common Core State Standards to implementation, there are critical transitional steps that will loom large in the success or failure of this movement.Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Releases_Policy_Brief_Relating_to_Common_Core_Implementation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_is_Open_for_CCSSO’s_Legislative_Conference_March_17-19_in_Washington_DC.htmlCCSSO Hosts Legislative Conference, March 17-19 in Washington, DC.Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Registration_is_Open_for_CCSSO’s_Legislative_Conference_March_17-19_in_Washington_DC.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Works_with_States_to_Develop_Online_Professional_Development_Guide_for_Teachers.htmlCCSSO has worked with a consortium of three states to develop an Online Professional Development Guide. The guide is aimed at meeting the needs for support of local educators as they transition to the Common Core State Standards.Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Works_with_States_to_Develop_Online_Professional_Development_Guide_for_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/First_Lady_Announces_New_Partnership_in_Let’s_Move_Initiative.htmlFirst lady Michelle Obama, along with Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, announced a new partnership with schools as part of her Let's Move! project.Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/First_Lady_Announces_New_Partnership_in_Let’s_Move_Initiative.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Business_Leaders_Express_Support_for_the_Common_Core.htmlAn open letter from 73 business leaders appeared in the New York Times on February 12, 2013, outlining support for the Common Core State Standards.Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Business_Leaders_Express_Support_for_the_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Gym_Class_Isnt_Just_Fun_and_Games_Anymore.htmlDriven by a heightened focus on student test scores in math and English as well as a desire to encourage kids to be healthy, more school districts are pushing physical education (P.E.) teachers to include math, writing, and reading in their gym lessons.Mon, 18 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Gym_Class_Isnt_Just_Fun_and_Games_Anymore.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Students_Taking_Passing_AP_Exams_But_Concerns_Linger_Over_Access.htmlData released by the College Board reveals that 19.5 percent of high school graduates scored a three or higher on an Advanced Placement (AP) exam in 2012, up from 18.1 percent in 2011 and 11.6 percent in 2002. The number of students taking at least one AP exam rose to 32.4 percent in 2012, up from 30.2 percent in 2011 and 18 percent in 2002.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/More_Students_Taking_Passing_AP_Exams_But_Concerns_Linger_Over_Access.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Federal_Grant_Prospect_Reignites_Kindergarten-Assessment_Debate.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education (DOE) plans to award $9.2 million in grants through its readiness-to-learn initiative, with the money intended to help states create kindergarten-entry assessments. The DOE is focused on kindergarten-entry assessments that measure "children's learning and development across all the essential domains," meaning academic readiness, social skills, physical health, and emotional well-being.Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Federal_Grant_Prospect_Reignites_Kindergarten-Assessment_Debate.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Attendance_Data_Eyed.htmlOhio Auditor Dave Yost says the state needs to change how it counts school populations after examining attendance data manipulation across school districts, noting that changes should include incentives for schools to get students to class every day.Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/School_Attendance_Data_Eyed.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NY_Schools_Will_Receive_87_Million_for_Tech_Upgrades_From_Settlement.htmlAbout $87 million from a legal settlement with Microsoft will be devoted to technology upgrades across New York, says the State Education Department. The funds will be used as part of the New York Technology Voucher Program, which is available for K-12 schools serving low-income families.Fri, 15 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NY_Schools_Will_Receive_87_Million_for_Tech_Upgrades_From_Settlement.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Officials_Say_Early_Childhood_Programs_Paying_Off.htmlNorth Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler says pre-kindergarten education programs have improved learning, with low-income students from preschool outperforming their peers in reading most of the time. Some records at Devils Lake's Sweetwater Elementary School reveal that for all but one group, the gains held through third grade.Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/North_Dakota_Officials_Say_Early_Childhood_Programs_Paying_Off.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Contemplates_Backup_Tests_for_Common_Core.htmlFlorida Education Commissioner Tony Bennett says the state needs a contingency plan in case the Common Core assessments being developed by the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) are not ready on schedule.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Florida_Contemplates_Backup_Tests_for_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_House_Gives_Outline_of_Early-Childhood_Ed_Expansion_Plan.htmlPresident Barack Obama called for expanding access to preschool programs to just about every child in the country during his State of the Union address, but he offered almost no details about how Congress would pay for the plan. Additional details were outlined by the administration on Feb. 14, with funding coming mostly from the states via a partnership with the federal government.Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/White_House_Gives_Outline_of_Early-Childhood_Ed_Expansion_Plan.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wash_Schools_Boss_Aims_to_Cut_2_Graduation_Exams.htmlBeginning with 2013's sophomores, Washington state students will have to pass five different tests to graduate. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Randy Dorn wants to see the state reduce that requirement to three graduation exams and transfer the majority of grading for the test alternative, known as "collection of evidence," to local school districts.Thu, 07 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wash_Schools_Boss_Aims_to_Cut_2_Graduation_Exams.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Seeks_to_Upgrade_Preschool_Programs.htmlIn Louisiana, the departments of Education, Children and Family Services, and Health and Hospitals are working to establish a statewide network of preschool providers to ensure children are prepared for kindergarten. The departments are looking for communities to take part in pilot programs to boost preschool and day care educational quality.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Seeks_to_Upgrade_Preschool_Programs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Revamps_Career_Technical_Education_Standards_to_Prep_Students_for_Jobs.htmlAs part of California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson's Career Readiness Initiative, middle and high school students must meet updated career technical education standards, which reflect the modern workplace and its technology and establish higher academic goals.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/California_Revamps_Career_Technical_Education_Standards_to_Prep_Students_for_Jobs.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/P21_Advocates_for_21st_Century_Readiness_Acts_in_113th_Congress.htmlThe Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21) continues to advocate for advancing the 21st Century Readiness Acts in the new 113th Congress. On February 12, P21 asked leaders in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to support of this legislation.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/P21_Advocates_for_21st_Century_Readiness_Acts_in_113th_Congress.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Assessment_Governing_Board_to_Host_Webinar_on_NAEP_Data.htmlOn Thursday, February 21, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. EST, 9:00 a.m., PST states are invited to participate in the National Assessment Governing Board’s webinar, Lessons for All: Decades of NAEP Data from the Mega-States, an event in Sacramento, Calif. and live webcast to release the results of a new NAEP report drawing on nearly two decades of data.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/National_Assessment_Governing_Board_to_Host_Webinar_on_NAEP_Data.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hawaii_DOE_Progress_Leads_to_Partial_Removal_of_Race_to_the_Top_“High_Risk”_Status_.htmlThe U.S. Department of Education (USED) has announced that the Hawaii State Department of Education is off of Race to the Top (RTTT) “high-risk” status for its work on standards, assessments, and data system development and use. USED notified state education officials late Friday about the change followed by an official letter to Governor Neil Abercrombie.Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Hawaii_DOE_Progress_Leads_to_Partial_Removal_of_Race_to_the_Top_“High_Risk”_Status_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_State_Chiefs_Renew_Plea_for_NCLB_Rewrite.htmlIn a Feb. 4 letter to Congress, the Council of Chief State School Officers, the National Governors Association, the National School Boards Association, the National Association of Counties, the National League of Cities, and other organizations called for an update to the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), stating that reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act is "must pass" legislation.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_State_Chiefs_Renew_Plea_for_NCLB_Rewrite.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DQC_to_Host_Webinar_on_The_Power_of_Communication.htmlOn Tuesday, February 19 at 2:00 p.m., ET, the Data Quality Campaign (DQC) will host "The Power of Communication," a discussion of communications challenges and success. Experts on developing and implementing communications strategy will share their experience to help states develop communications plan.Tue, 12 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DQC_to_Host_Webinar_on_The_Power_of_Communication.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_Important_Questions_About_NCLB_Waiver_Implementation.htmlFollowing the recent U.S. Senate hearing on the Obama administration's No Child Left Behind waivers, New Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf, New York Education Commissioner John King, Jr., and Kentucky Education Commissioner Terry Holliday engaged in a one-hour discussion about the waivers hosted by the Council of Chief State School Officers.Fri, 08 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_Important_Questions_About_NCLB_Waiver_Implementation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Using_Teacher_Evaluation_Reform_and_Professional_Development_to_Support_Common_Core_Assessments.htmlA report from the Center for American Progress (CAP) reveals that past attempts to enact standards-based education reform have been impeded by teacher evaluation limitations and that the Common Core State Standards draws on the "standard of care" concept, which calls on teachers to continually acquire new knowledge and hone their skills.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Using_Teacher_Evaluation_Reform_and_Professional_Development_to_Support_Common_Core_Assessments.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Move_Ahead_to_Implement_Common_Core.htmlA new report from Education First and the EPE Research Center, "Moving Forward: A National Perspective on States' Progress in Common Core State Standards Implementation Planning," looks at the progress being made by states in implementing the standards, with a focus on professional development, curriculum materials, and teacher evaluations.Mon, 04 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/States_Move_Ahead_to_Implement_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teacher_Evaluation_Report_Released_by_State_Education_Department.htmlTwo reports released by the New Jersey Department of Education show that a "collective refocus" on what constitutes good teaching occurred as part of a pilot teacher evaluation program in 10 school districts in 2012.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teacher_Evaluation_Report_Released_by_State_Education_Department.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Superintendent_Juneau_Makes_Strong_Pitch_for_Public_Education.htmlWhen addressing a joint session of the Montana House and Senate, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau urged lawmakers to invest in the state's public schools, which she described as incubators for innovative, adaptive programs.Mon, 04 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Superintendent_Juneau_Makes_Strong_Pitch_for_Public_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tony_Bennett_Florida_Progressing_in_Race_to_the_Top.htmlFlorida Department of Education Commissioner Tony Bennett recently highlighted the state's efforts to reach the Race to the Top requirements as detailed by the U.S. Department of Education. "Florida has shown great progress in meeting its Race to the Top goals, and I applaud the department for the strong leadership they have demonstrated in their thoughtful and pragmatic approach to implementing this grant," Bennett said.Fri, 01 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Tony_Bennett_Florida_Progressing_in_Race_to_the_Top.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/With_100M_From_The_Gates_Foundation_and_Others_inBloom_Wants_to_Transform_Education_by_Unleashing_Its_Data.htmlAs interest in education technology grows, some of the most influential businesses and entrepreneurs are engaging in the conversation, including former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who said in a CNN op-ed that digital education is important in the unification of the student population and to "maximize students' potential to succeed by opening their eyes to a more diverse, customized array of learning techniques."Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/With_100M_From_The_Gates_Foundation_and_Others_inBloom_Wants_to_Transform_Education_by_Unleashing_Its_Data.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnich_Update_Our_Education_Legislation.htmlChris Minnich, executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers, says Congress needs to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act using state accountability systems developed as part of the No Child Left Behind waiver program as a basis.Wed, 06 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Minnich_Update_Our_Education_Legislation.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Common_Core_State_Standards_Implementation_Tools_and_Resources.htmlThe Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) released of an updated edition of the Common Core Implementation Tools and Resources Guide. CCSSO developed this list of free tools and resources to point states, districts, and educators to promising ideas and tools to support the implementation of the Common Core State Standards.Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Releases_Common_Core_State_Standards_Implementation_Tools_and_Resources.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_from_KY_and_NY_Call_on_Congress_to_Reauthorize_ESEA_in_Testimony_before_US_Senate.htmlOn Thursday, February 7, chief state school officers from Kentucky and New York testified about the reform efforts they are advancing under their approved flexibility waivers before the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP).Thu, 07 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Chiefs_from_KY_and_NY_Call_on_Congress_to_Reauthorize_ESEA_in_Testimony_before_US_Senate.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Former_CCSSO_Executive_Director_Gene_Wilhoit_Announces_New_Endeavors.htmlGene Wilhoit has been named the director of the National Center for Innovation in Education, a new organization being established at the University of Kentucky, College of Education with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Former_CCSSO_Executive_Director_Gene_Wilhoit_Announces_New_Endeavors.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NC_Principals_Share_Best_Practices_with_Peers_in_Challenged_Schools.htmlThe North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s District and School Transformation (DST) division has developed The Professional Development for School Leaders program. The program is designed to foster peer collaboration among the leaders of high- and low- preforming schools.Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/NC_Principals_Share_Best_Practices_with_Peers_in_Challenged_Schools.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Hosts_Webinar_on_Summer_Learning_.htmlOn Tuesday, February 5, Metametrics hosted a webinar to learn more about summer learning loss and the free resources they offer to combat it. In addition to their web-based resources for reading, MetaMetrics will be offering resources to promote mathematics over the summer.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MetaMetrics_Hosts_Webinar_on_Summer_Learning_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Convenes_State_Teachers_of_the_Year_in_Scottsdale_AZ.htmlState Teachers of the Year from across the country gathered together in Scottsdale, Arizona last week, to engage in conversations and activities focused on professional development and the National Teacher of the Year program.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Convenes_State_Teachers_of_the_Year_in_Scottsdale_AZ.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Senate_HELP_Committee_to_Host_Hearing_on_NCLB_Flexibility_Waivers.htmlThe U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) will host a full committee hearing on Thursday, February 7 titled: No Child Left Behind: Early Lessons from State Flexibility Waivers.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Senate_HELP_Committee_to_Host_Hearing_on_NCLB_Flexibility_Waivers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wallace_Releases_New_Expanded_Edition_of_The_School_Principal_as_Leader_Guiding_Schools_to_Better_Teaching_and_Learning.htmlThe Wallace Foundation has issued an expanded version of its report, "The School Principal as Leader: Guiding Schools to Better Teaching and Learning," which details the key practices of effective school leaders - and why such leadership is important to teachers.Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Wallace_Releases_New_Expanded_Edition_of_The_School_Principal_as_Leader_Guiding_Schools_to_Better_Teaching_and_Learning.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common-Core_Rollout_in_Big_Cities_Probed_in_New_Report.htmlIn a recent report from the Council of the Great City Schools, about 87 percent of 36 urban school districts said they would have the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) fully implemented by the 2014-15 school year.Sun, 27 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common-Core_Rollout_in_Big_Cities_Probed_in_New_Report.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nonfiction_Revamps_English_Education.htmlRedesigning the high school English curriculum under the Common Core Standards Initiative has begun, and the College Board is pushing for the inclusion of more nonfiction narratives on student reading lists to help prepare them for university-level coursework.Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Nonfiction_Revamps_English_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/STEM_Interest_on_Rise_Among_High_Schoolers_Report_Finds.htmlAccording to a recent report from My College Options and STEMconnector, nearly 25 percent of high school students are interested in pursuing STEM majors and careers, though the gender gap has widened with fewer females showing STEM interest.Wed, 30 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/STEM_Interest_on_Rise_Among_High_Schoolers_Report_Finds.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Calls_for_Big_Pay_Boost_for_Teachers.htmlMichigan Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan says to attract more mathematicians and scientists into the teaching profession, teacher salaries should be increased to $100,000 or more.Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Superintendent_Calls_for_Big_Pay_Boost_for_Teachers.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Next_Generation_Science_Standards_Open_for_Public_Review_Comment.htmlThe public review and comment period for the second draft of the Next Generation Science Standards, developed with the help of 26 states, ended on Jan. 29. Kansas Education Commissioner Diane DeBacker says, "We're pleased to have another opportunity for a broader audience to view the work being done [on the standards.]Sun, 27 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Next_Generation_Science_Standards_Open_for_Public_Review_Comment.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Union_Hawaii_Department_of_Education_Agree_on_New_Evaluations_for_Principals.htmlThe Hawaii Department of Education and the Hawaii Government Employees Association, which represents public school principals in the state, recently reached an agreement on evaluations to rate principals on student outcomes and leadership.Sun, 27 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Union_Hawaii_Department_of_Education_Agree_on_New_Evaluations_for_Principals.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_Takeaways_on_Floridas_Switch_to_New_Academic_Standards.htmlFlorida education officials recently discussed the implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) at a panel hosted by St. Petersburg College. The discussion touched on how the CCSS will enable better comparisons among states, though states will implement the new standards differently, and the ways in which the CCSS will incorporate technology into the classroom.Sun, 27 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Five_Takeaways_on_Floridas_Switch_to_New_Academic_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Positioned_to_Exit_No_Child_Left_Behind_Act.htmlAt the recent "Doing What Matters for Alabama's Children" conference, State Superintendent Thomas Bice rolled out "Plan 2020," which involves new ways of educating students and supporting educators and school systems.Wed, 30 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Positioned_to_Exit_No_Child_Left_Behind_Act.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_Discuss_Implementing_New_Accountability_Systems.htmlThirty-four states and the District of Columbia now have waivers from certain provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) approved by the U.S. Department of Education. These waivers provide states the flexibility needed to establish rigorous, high-quality accountability systems that support schools and districts, and provide students with the interventions they need to improve. States are now months into implementation of waivers and, having made significant progress, are considering how these important reform efforts will be continued. States are calling on Congress to reauthorize ESEA to include the innovations from their waivers and provide stability to move forward with systemic reform.Thu, 07 Feb 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Chiefs_Discuss_Implementing_New_Accountability_Systems.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_And_vs_or_in_the_Common_Core.htmlJessica Cuthbertson, a literacy teacher based in Aurora, Colo., says the Common Core State Standards offer numerous professional possibilities and greater collaboration. Many question whether the Common Core stresses contemporary texts or the classics, informational texts or literature, excerpts or whole works, but Cuthbertson says "or" should be replaced with "and" when implementing the standards.Fri, 04 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Voices_And_vs_or_in_the_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Valley_School_Districts_Race_to_Adopt_Common_Core_Standards.htmlIn the last two years, West Valley (Ariz.) school districts have focused efforts on teacher training and curriculum development to meet the needs of the new Common Core standards that will be used beginning next fall. The standards are expected to help students with critical thinking and ensure a deeper understanding of subjects. Arizona will replace its AIMS test in 2015 with the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) online test.Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/West_Valley_School_Districts_Race_to_Adopt_Common_Core_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/When_Poetry_Meets_the_Common_Core.htmlThe Common Core State Standards (CCSS) have schools and teachers concerned about their curriculum, particularly the emphasis on informational texts under the standards. Educators working in literature and with poetry are particularly concerned, but Center for Teaching Quality's Teacher Leaders Network member Ben Curran says poetry is a perfect fit and should play an important role.Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/When_Poetry_Meets_the_Common_Core.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_Department_of_Education_Releases_Informational_Brochures_on_ESEA_Flexibility.htmlTo assist states as they continue to pursue opportunities for ESEA flexibility, the U.S. Department of Education (USED) has released a series of informational brochures and fact sheets related to ESEA Flexibility.Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/US_Department_of_Education_Releases_Informational_Brochures_on_ESEA_Flexibility.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Joins_New_Coalition_to_Boost_STEM_Graduates.htmlCCSSO has joined a new coalition aimed at boosting STEM graduates and jobs throughout the country. inSPIRE STEM USA is co-chaired by former New Hampshire Senator John E. Sununu and Maria Cardona, a former adviser to the presidential campaign of Hillary Clinton and surrogate for both of Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns.Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Joins_New_Coalition_to_Boost_STEM_Graduates.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Top_K-12_Senator_Tom_Harkin_to_Retire.htmlU.S. Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) will not seek re-election in 2014. He oversees the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, which is tasked with renewing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the Higher Education Act, and other bills that deal with schools. He also chairs a Senate appropriations subcommittee that writes funding bills for all K-12 programs.Sat, 26 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Top_K-12_Senator_Tom_Harkin_to_Retire.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Chief_Will_Stay_the_Course .htmlThe appointment of Chris Minnich as the new executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) indicates that the organization will continue to help states implement the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and develop assessments for the standards.Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Chief_Will_Stay_the_Course .htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High-School_Graduation_Rate_Inches_Up.htmlNew data from the National Center for Education Statistics says the graduation rate among U.S. high-school students climbed to a 35-year high in 2010. The rate increased 2.7 percent over the prior year to 78.2 percent for students receiving their diploma in four years. Graduation rates have mostly been on the rise over the past decade.Tue, 22 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High-School_Graduation_Rate_Inches_Up.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Digital_Academy_Picking_Up_Steam.htmlThe Montana Digital Academy (MTDA) was created by the state legislature three years ago to be an online learning tool for the state's far-flung high school students. Almost any class is available on MTDA, ranging from remedial math and English courses to language, honors, Advanced Placement, and dual credit classes, such as Latin and oceanography.Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Montana_Digital_Academy_Picking_Up_Steam.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_Budget_Invests_Big_Bucks_in_Education.htmlOn Jan. 22, Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton released his 2014-15 budget, which includes additional funding for education for every year that he is governor. State Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius and Minnesota Office of Higher Education Director Larry Pogemiller both commented that the governor's newly framed budget could be the largest dollar increase for education in the history of the state.Tue, 22 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Governors_Budget_Invests_Big_Bucks_in_Education.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Raises_Testing_Standards.htmlOn Jan. 24, the Illinois State Board of Education voted to increase the cut-off score for elementary and middle school students taking the Illinois Standards Achievement Test in English language arts and math.Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Board_of_Education_Raises_Testing_Standards.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Seeks_Teachers_Input.htmlThe Delaware Department of Education will use Race to the Top money to launch an anonymous online survey, called "TELL Delaware," to provide teachers with the chance to voice any feedback about their working conditions.Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Seeks_Teachers_Input.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Obama_Proposes_Host_of_School_Safety_Mental_Health_Programs_to_Curb_Violence.htmlFollowing the Newtown, Conn., school shooting, President Barack Obama issued a plan that focuses not only on mental health services but also on public school safety as a way to prevent similar tragedies.Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Obama_Proposes_Host_of_School_Safety_Mental_Health_Programs_to_Curb_Violence.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Crush_of_Education_Laws_Await_Renewal_in_Congress.htmlThe new, still-divided Congress that took office this month faces a lengthy list of education policy legislation that is either overdue for renewal or will be soon, in a political landscape that remains consumed with fiscal issues. But it's tough to say whether there will be much action on all that outdated legislation—including the No Child Left Behind Act, which has awaited reauthorization since 2007.Mon, 21 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Crush_of_Education_Laws_Await_Renewal_in_Congress.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Standards_Arguments_Against_—_and_For_.htmlUniversity of Oregon's College of Education Presidential Chair and Associate Dean for Global Education Yong Zhao says the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are "working to perfect an outdated paradigm," and National Center on Education and the Economy President Marc Tucker agrees.Tue, 15 Jan 2013 07:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Common_Core_Standards_Arguments_Against_—_and_For_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Joins_Alternate_Assessment_System_Consortium_.htmlVermont has joined 13 other states in the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM) Alternative Assessment Consortium headed by the University of Kansas' Center for Educational Testing and Evaluation. The consortium -- which also includes Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin -- is creating a computer-based assessment for K-12 public school students with significant cognitive disabilities.Thu, 17 Jan 2013 07:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vermont_Joins_Alternate_Assessment_System_Consortium_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SD_Part_of_Push_for_Teaching_Reform.htmlThe Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) teacher prep task force issued a variety of recommendations to improve the way colleges prepare teachers for their first post-graduation jobs.Mon, 14 Jan 2013 07:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/SD_Part_of_Push_for_Teaching_Reform.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High_School_Graduation_Rate_on_the_Rise_in_Montana.htmlMontana's 2012 Graduation and Dropout report revealed that the number of dropouts decreased from nearly 2,500 students in the 2008-09 school year to more than 1,800 students in the 2011-12 school year, and the graduation rate increased nearly 2 percent to about 84 percent.Wed, 16 Jan 2013 07:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/High_School_Graduation_Rate_on_the_Rise_in_Montana.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teacher_Career_Paths_Focus_of_Bill.htmlIowa Gov. Terry Branstad's issued an $187 million education reform proposal, and the centerpiece of the plan is the creation of new career paths for teachers, who could receive pay bumps for taking on extra duties.Mon, 14 Jan 2013 07:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Teacher_Career_Paths_Focus_of_Bill.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Announces_Four_Finalists_for_National_Teacher_of_the_Year.htmlCCSSO announces today four finalists for the 2013 National Teacher of the Year. The National Teacher of the Year spends a year representing educators across the country and advocating on behalf of the teaching profession.Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/CCSSO_Announces_Four_Finalists_for_National_Teacher_of_the_Year.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Thirty-Eight_States_Gather_for_Accountability_Meeting_in_Washington_DC.htmlCCSSO convened representatives from 38 states to collaborate on shared challenges and successes related to accountability on January 9-10. Many of the states in attendance have received ESEA flexibility, while others are in the process of applying for flexibility or have decided not to apply at all. . Many of the states in attendance have received ESEA flexibility, while others are in the process of applying for flexibility or have decided not to apply at all.Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Thirty-Eight_States_Gather_for_Accountability_Meeting_in_Washington_DC.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/What_English_classes_should_look_like_in_Common_Core_era.htmlCarol Jago, a past president of the National Council of Teachers of English, clarifies the Common Core question of where the 70 percent non-fiction 30 percent fiction for seniors actually came from and how English classes should look. "It may be the case that in some schools high school English teachers are being told to cut back on the poetry and teach more informational text. I'm hoping this mistaken directive can soon be reversed. English teachers need to teach more poetry, more fiction, more drama, and more literary nonfiction. More is more when it comes to reading, " said Jago.Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/What_English_classes_should_look_like_in_Common_Core_era.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Good_Teachers_Linked_to_Test_Success.htmlA study found that effective teachers can boost the test scores of students who had struggled under low-performing instructors, marking a new salvo in the national debate over teacher performance. The three-year study by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, published Tuesday, is the first large-scale research to show, using random student assignment, that some teachers can produce test-score gains regardless of the past performance of their students, according to foundation officials.Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Good_Teachers_Linked_to_Test_Success.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Science-Standards_Draft_Includes_Many_Changes.htmlA second and final public draft of the Next Generation Science Standards to reshape K-12 science education was released for comment after eight months of review and rewriting. Organizers expect the final set of standards to be ready by March, after which the standards will be given to the states for adoption.Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Science-Standards_Draft_Includes_Many_Changes.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vilaseca_Keeps_Vermonts_Top_Education_Job_Now_as_Secretary.htmlArmando Vilaseca was named Vermont's first secretary of education, but he will only remain in the position for one year as the department transitions into an agency overseen by the governor.Thu, 03 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Vilaseca_Keeps_Vermonts_Top_Education_Job_Now_as_Secretary.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kansas_Governor_Sets_Sights_on_Boosting_Reading.htmlKansas Gov. Sam Brownback acknowledges that more must be done to boost the reading levels of younger students, and State Education Commissioner Diane DeBacker said research has shown that school readiness can improve by having higher amounts of words spoken at home, especially through reading to children.Sat, 05 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Kansas_Governor_Sets_Sights_on_Boosting_Reading.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/On_The_Road_to_Better_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlThe New Hampshire Department of Education (DOE) has created a teacher evaluation system that can be used as a model by school districts, which are required by state law to implement an evaluation policy but can craft it themselves.Fri, 04 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/On_The_Road_to_Better_Teacher_Evaluations.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Northgate_Among_Georgia_Schools_Eligible_for_STEM_AP_Course_Funding_.htmlThe College Board has selected 31 Georgia high schools, including Northgate High School, to apply for funding through the new AP STEM Access program to increase the number of minority and female students who participate in Advanced Placement Program courses in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) disciplines.Mon, 14 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Northgate_Among_Georgia_Schools_Eligible_for_STEM_AP_Course_Funding_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MET_Project_Releases_Final_Report_on_Fair_and_Reliable_Measures_of_Effective_Teaching.htmlThe Measures of Effective Teaching (MET) Project released today its third and final report: Ensuring Fair and Reliable Measures of Effective Teaching Culminating Findings from the MET Project’s Three-Year Study.Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/MET_Project_Releases_Final_Report_on_Fair_and_Reliable_Measures_of_Effective_Teaching.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Idaho_Deputy_Carissa_Miller_Joins_CCSSO_as_Deputy_Executive_Director__.htmlCCSSO announces today that Carissa Miller is named deputy executive director overseeing CCSSO's membership program, federal advocacy activities, and research service. Carissa will start in this position in February of 2013.Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Idaho_Deputy_Carissa_Miller_Joins_CCSSO_as_Deputy_Executive_Director__.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Advice_Caution_From_Early_Adopters_of_New_Teacher_Evaluations_.htmlAbout 67 percent of states are in the process of implementing teacher evaluations to improve public education, and many of those evaluations will include student achievement -- generally measured by standardized tests -- and classroom observation.Wed, 02 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/Advice_Caution_From_Early_Adopters_of_New_Teacher_Evaluations_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Law_Change_Keeps_Principal_Evaluations_Under_Wraps_.htmlUnder a bill signed by Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker in April, school boards must implement teacher and principal evaluation systems -- either those developed by the State Department of Public Instruction or equivalent systems -- by the 2014-15 school year.Thu, 03 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Law_Change_Keeps_Principal_Evaluations_Under_Wraps_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Ed_Approves_533_Teacher_Evaluation_Plans.htmlNew York State Education Commissioner John B. King, Jr., has approved 533 school district teacher and principal Annual Professional Performance Review evaluation plans, which were submitted as required by the revised teacher and principal evaluation law passed in 2012.Wed, 02 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/State_Ed_Approves_533_Teacher_Evaluation_Plans.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_to_Receive_25M_From_Feds_for_Early_Learning_.htmlNew Mexico will be one of 14 states to receive millions in federal "Race to the Top" education spending. The state Public Education Department (PED) said New Mexico will receive $25 million over the next four years as part of Race to the Top's Early Learning Challenge grant competition, which focuses on "improving early learning and development programs for young children," according to the U.S. Department of Education.Tue, 01 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/New_Mexico_to_Receive_25M_From_Feds_for_Early_Learning_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/View_From_the_Top_Cerf_and_Ruiz_Talk_Education_2013_.htmlNew Jersey Education Commissioner Chris Cerf spoke with NJ Spotlight about education reform priorities for 2013, including teacher evaluation systems, turnaround strategies for troubled schools, and the introduction of new standards and assessments for students.Thu, 03 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/View_From_the_Top_Cerf_and_Ruiz_Talk_Education_2013_.htmlhttp://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DOE_Seeks_Online_Program_Funding.htmlIowa Education Director Jason Glass requests $1.5 million in funding for the next three years to broaden online education opportunities for high school students.Wed, 02 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0100http://www.ccsso.org/News_and_Events/Current_News/DOE_Seeks_Online_Program_Funding.htmlhttp://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.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://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.Wed, 02 Oct 2013 15:55:46 +0000http://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