Common Core Confusion

          Watching Steven Colbert's "Common Core Confusion" video reminded me of the conversations I experience at work- endless criticism and complaints regarding the Common Core State Standards and New York State Standardized Testing. I sit quietly and listen, knowing that my personal beliefs about the Common Core do not align with my coworkers'.
          I'm not sure whether these individuals are disregarding the central purpose of the Common Core or refuse to accept change. However, like it or not, education has changed drastically with the introduction of the Common Core State Standards. The Common Core State Standards define the knowledge and skills that all students, grades K-12, should develop regardless of which state they live in. Essentially, the Common Core State Standards "levels the playing field" and ensures that students nationwide have access to the same curriculum.
          These Standards, in combination with the Engage NY Modules and New York State Standardized Testing have students, teachers, and parents in an uproar. In an attempt to protest this new curriculum, parents have decided to "opt-out" of the tests. Personally, I do not see the value and purpose of these actions. I feel that refusing to participate in these exams is sending the wrong message to students. In life, things are not always going to be easy and things are constantly changing. You don't always have the choice to refuse to do things you don't agree with. Think about your career. If your boss asks you to complete a complex project or task, how do you respond? Do you refuse to even attempt the task? No. You work hard and give it your best effort. Students must learn this same perseverance and determination.
          Before saying that students are not capable of the higher-order critical thinking this new curriculum demands, give students a chance to prove themselves. With proper instruction, guidance, support, and encouragement, students are capable of much more than you may think. It will be interesting to see the effect the Common Core State Standards have on education within the United States in the next few years...