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leaders tackle Common Core State Standards
In June 2009, Idaho joined 47 other states to develop a common core of state standards for proficiency in English-language arts and mathematics for grades K-12. The common Core State Standards Initiative (CCSS) is a voluntary, state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices. These standards define the knowledge and skills students should have within their K-12 education careers so they will graduate from high school able to succeed beyond high school in post-secondary education and the workforce. Cottonwood, Craigmont and Nezperce have joined together to unpack the new standards and to work as a team to create continuity between the districts in aligning curriculum to the CCSS. Kim Schumacher, Prairie Elementary teacher, is organizing Professional Development activities for all teachers in the three districts. The goal is to get grade level alignment as well as include all of the elective curriculums in working toward the goal of success for students in post secondary education and in the workforce. Each district has team leaders who will provide support to groups as we work to develop curriculum aligned to CCSS. On June 4, team leaders gathered to start the process. A second meeting will be held August 20, 2012. District followup meetings will be held October 4 and 5 and January 18 and February 15. Team Leaders include: Melanie Cronz, Jeanne Wasko, Adam Keith, Marietta Leitch- Nezperce Cindy Schumacher, Sherry Holthaus, Renee Eckert, Darbie Duclos, Andrea Brannan, Krystal Ellis - Cottonwood Julie Yochum - Craigmont 
Teacher leaders from Cottonwood, Nezperce and Highland School Districts during a training session on aligning curriculum to state standards. |
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