 The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a state-led effort to establish a shared set of clear educational standards in English language arts and mathematics for grades K-12. It was launched by the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices. The Common Core Standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that young people need for success in college and careers. The South Dakota Department of Education gathered input from educators regarding content, rigor, developmental appropriateness and alignment of the Common Core Standards throughout the process and then provided that feedback to CCSSO and NGA. Feedback from South Dakota educators was generally positive. On Nov. 29, 2010, the South Dakota Board of Education moved to adopt the Common Core Standards. IMPLEMENTATION In preparation for 2014-15 assessment, the Department of Education is launching the “Common Core Professional Development” series, which will cover a span of three years. The series will provide South Dakota educators with a systemic model to implement the Common Core within a learning environment rich in collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking. Visit this document for more information: Professional Development Initiative ASSESSMENT South Dakota along with 30 states have joined the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC). In 2015, a set of comprehensive and innovative assessments including state-of-the-art adaptive online exams, for grades 3-8 and high school in English language arts and mathematics aligned to the Common Core State Standards will be assess so that all students leave high school prepared for post-secondary success in college or a career through increased student learning and improved teaching. CONTACT For more information, contact Becky Nelson at the Department of Education's Office of Curriculum, Career and Technical Education at (605) 773-4681. |
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