Controversy Over Common Core Standards Continues
Controversy continues over common core, the education initiative that aims to make more universal school standards.
Proposed state legislation would let school systems opt out of common core. Many school boards oppose the bill, saying it would defeat the purpose of having widespread standards, since each school system could create its own. Several local school boards have already passed legislation, saying they want common core to stay in place. Some school officials say they feel like legislators aren’t listening to them.
“I am in my tenth year in office, and just the degree year after year of disrespect that we’re seeing from the legislators that are not paying attention to us at all. We’re still reeling from the Accountability Act last year,” said Jeff Langham, Superintendent of Elmore County Schools.
Bill proponents say they are listening to local school systems. They say the opt-out bill isn’t mean to overrule school boards, but give them more choices.
“The people closest to the ground are the local boards of education. they know whether it’s working for them, and that way, the ones that want out can be out-and the ones that want in can be in. i’m surprised we didn’t get more support in the full senate for that idea,” said Senator Dick Brewbaker, a Republican.
This is the latest legislation meant to lessen the reach of common core. The opt out bill was proposed after efforts to completely repeal it failed to pass.
