When it comes to the issue of education, Donald Trump has been very clear, he wants to make definitive cuts to the system. One such cut that he is firm on, is Common Core. “He hates the Common Core standards. They are as he says, “a total disaster” and he promises to abolish them upon presuming presidency …”
Kevin Carey who originally wrote the article for the NY Times states that education is not a federal governmental issue. Trump goes on to say that the common core standards “has to be at a local level.” Carey aptly points out that he is promising to solve a problem that doesn’t really exist. It is the states themselves that volunteer to adopt Common Core standards or spurn them. States and localities don’t have the ability to set educational standards. Last year congress passed the Federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act that forbid the Secretary of Education for implementing or even encouraging adopting any standards for school curriculum.
Sometimes we dislike what we don’t understand. Common Core is just a way to reorganize and better articulate the standards that already exist. One of the greatest advantages to Common Core is that it actually puts creativity back into the classroom. More “hands-on” materials and lessons are being incorporated, and creative ideas are finding their way to the classrooms in themselves. “When students can explore a concept and really immerse themselves in that content, they emerge with a full understanding that lasts well beyond testing season. Full comprehension for the subject is better maintained. Another advantage of Common Core, is that all children learn equally, no matter what environment they grow up in. The students, from all parts of the country—affluent, urban, rural, or low-income “…are being held to the same rigorous standards, it promotes equity in the quality of education and the level of achievement gained.” Additionally, the higher level thinking skills gained from Common Core, help prepare our students for decisions to make when going to college. “If a student who was taught how to think critically and how to read texts for information and analysis can explain the premise behind a mathematical thesis, she’ll have options and opportunities.” This student can take those skills and apply them to either college or work skills for their future.
Other candidates have also followed suit with Mr. Trump for their understanding of Common Core and their efforts in eliminating it. Therefore, It is my belief that when we don’t understand something, we fear it and dislike it. Common Core is not our enemy; the lack of open-mindedness is more to be feared.