The New Common Core Based Standards - 961 Words

In 2010, the education system in the state of Arizona began to change. The Arizona State Board of Education adopted new standards for school districts to follow and abide by. The new standards known as Arizona’s College and Career Ready Standards (ACCRS) began to be implemented by schools statewide by early 2013. The purpose of the new standards is to be a set of benchmarks (standardized tests) for students of all grades to take and meet as they move through the Arizona school system. The state of Arizona believes that a â€Å"consistent framework to prepare students† is through the increased advancement of language arts, social studies (history), science and mathematics. The new Common Core-based standards are implemented to prepare students†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"Meaningful,† however, may have multiple meanings within context. Many people, parents, teachers, and students alike, disagree with the rules and regulations brought forward by the Arizona College and Career Ready State Standards. They believe that the new standards lack specificity and that the training necessary for teachers to understand how to teach the new standards may not be worth the time or money. Budgeting is a primary source of conflict and controversy. By funding the production of the new tests and teacher training, schools and districts are forced to be cut back in other important areas, such as learning and testing tools for special needs children (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities). Another major argument is that the new standards focus more on obtaining better test scores and increased school rankings than actual knowledge. In complete contrast, many people strongly agree with the new standards brought forth by the Arizona College and Career Ready State Standards. It is believed by these people that the new approach will increase academic rigor and improve students’ critical thinking and problem solving skills. Consistency between different schools and even different states’ curriculum promotes easier transitions and both parents and students will always know what to expect. Those who support the standards