Chapter 13: The Problems With The Common Core

The Common Core State Standards have sparked debate about everything from the appropriateness of the early childhood standards to the sequencing of the math standards to the mix and type of mandated readings. With the reauthorization of ESEA (now called ESSA), states must still adopt “challenging” standards and test in the same grade levels. However, in this chapter, the author argues that the bigger issue is the role the CCSS is playing in the larger dynamics of current school reform and education politics. “Today everything about the Common Core, even the brand name—the Common Core State Standards—is contested,” Karp writes, “because these standards were created as an instrument of contested policy. They have become part of a larger political project to remake public education in ways that go well beyond slogans about making sure every student graduates ‘college and career ready,’ however that may be defined this year. We’re talking about implementing new national standards and tests for every school and district in the country in the wake of dramatic changes in the national and state context for education reform.” The following is an edited version of a talk delivered in Portland, OR on September 20, 2013.