National PTA Supports Final Draft of Common Core State Standards

The Following Statement Should Be Attributed to Charles J. "Chuck" Saylors, National PTA President


CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - June 2, 2010) -  National PTA enthusiastically supports the adoption and implementation by all states of the Common Core State Standards, which were released in final form today. 

The K-12 standards for math and English Language Arts are challenging and clear, and states that adopt them will be on their way to graduating more of their high school students ready for college and career.

The standards form a solid foundation for the high quality education systems that states must build. If states adopt the standards and align their curriculum, assessments and professional development to the new standards, many more of their students will graduate with the skills they need to succeed in college or a career.

National PTA urges all states to adopt the standards. The association is focusing its work in support of adoption and implementation in four critical states, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, and North Carolina; four additional states will be named later this year.

National PTA continues to encourage its millions of members to get behind this important campaign. We also encourage chief state school officers and state boards of education to include parents and PTA representatives in the adoption and implementation process. Parents and PTA members can provide valuable perspectives and can be key partners in advocating for standards adoption and implementation at the local level.

Adoption and implementation of the Common Core State Standards will not only mean that our young people will be better prepared for college and a career; it will make our economy stronger over the long term.

About National PTA
PTA comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.

To view this release in a media-rich format, go to: http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2010/pta_00602/index.html

Contact Information:

Contacts:
James Martinez

Office: (312) 670-6782 Ext. 321
Cell: (312) 623-4560