Introduction

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them. The standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers. With American students fully prepared for the future, our communities will be best positioned to compete successfully in the global economy. —from Mission Statement, Common Core State Standards Initiative

Forty-five states, the District of Columbia, four territories, and the Department of Defense Education Activity have adopted the Common Core thus far. Like them, the Simsbury Public Schools are aligning our classroom instruction with these standards for some very good reasons, just a few of which are 1) students will be better able to master critical content from one grade to the next; 2) the standards will engage students in solving real-world problems, which should inspire greater interest in mathematics; and 3) there will be more consistency about student learning expectations, not only in our district but across the country.

We are highly motivated by the end result, that your child will be more successful in postsecondary education and the workforce.