We are constantly told that Common Core was just a standard and “not a curriculum” That the standards are “the goal but the teachers will decide how to meet it.” Now that the standards are being implemented in Michigan schools, the “evidence” is quite the opposite. The standards ARE changing what a teacher does […]
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An Open Letter to Michigan Teachers
To the Hardworking Teachers in Michigan, We know that you have chosen your noble profession out of a love of teaching and love of children. We are so grateful to you for all that you do for our children and the future of our great state and country. We value and appreciate all of your […]
A Letter to All Michigan K-12 Parents and Interested Citizens From Melanie Kurdys In 2012, I ran for State Board of Education primarily to stop the incredibly inappropriate massive experiment being foisted on our children and our teachers, Common Core. I am sad to report that Michigan’s Republican Governor, Lt. Governor and Republican legislature failed […]
It is tempting to think that it is only parents and politicians on the right who oppose the Common Core. As the New York Times points out, that is not accurate. Common Core now has critics on the left and from the very liberal state of New York, no less. “But the newest chorus of […]
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Who’s the baby daddy?
The Michigan Constitution says in part, “Sec. 1. Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged.” So where does a high school biology assignment that promotes promiscuity and asks students to figure out the “baby daddy” fit in our […]
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Teachers frustrated with SBAC tests
Assessments (tests) are a key component of the Common Core. Currently, Michigan is part of the Smarter Balanced Consortia (SBAC). The SBAC has 24 states and territories at various stages of implementation. Due to House Concurrent Resolution 11, Michigan lawmakers are holding hearings to gather information about the different assessments available, including SBAC. Other […]
As we speak around the state about Common Core we’ve noticed a common theme at many of our events: Teachers have serous concerns about the Common Core and how it will change their profession. Many are also worried that if they publicly voice those concerns they may face consequences in their school or jeopardize their […]
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Interview on WJR 760
Many thanks to Frank Beckmann and WJR 760 for providing the opportunity to inform his listeners about the issues with Common Core and assessments. Frank Beckmann clearly did his research and understand the serious problems with national standards and assessments. Parents and teachers are growing more frustrated with the curricula, the testing, and the loss […]
A “must-see” thirteen minute video that presents the serious issues with common standards and standardized tests. “Where is the evidence that a centralized system is better than local control?” ~ Chris Tienke Please share with your family and friends. Parents not politicians and should be guiding the most important decisions in a child’s life. In […]
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What’s next for Michigan parents?
Many parents are asking us what can we do now that Common Core was adopted and a resolution (HCR 11) passed that allows the implementation of Common core to go forward. The STOP Common Core of Michigan team has devised a strategy for 2014 which we believe will help turn the tide in favor of […]