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Background of the CCSS for Mathematics

Common Core Logo

The Common Core State Standards Initiative was a state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and the Council of Chief State School Officers. The CCSS are designed for the purpose of providing strong, shared expectations across states and allows the adopting states to develop, create and share high-quality tools to support teaching and learning, including: 

  • Curricula 
  • Instructional materials 
  • Assessments 
  • Professional development programs

Consistent standards will provide appropriate benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live.” 

Common Core State Standards Initiative 

The CCSS are:

  • Internationally benchmarked with high-performing countries and are designed to prepare students for college and career readiness, allowing American students to successfully compete and collaborate with students around the world. 
  • Focused on readiness for college and career and provide a clear and consistent framework to prepare students for future academic and career success. They provide a common overview of the knowledge and skills K–12 students need, upon graduation from high school, to succeed in credit-bearing, academic college courses and in workforce training programs.

For additional information and a more detailed overview of the history of the CCSS, review the first module of the CCSS for California Educators series: Overview of the Common Core State Standards for California Educators.