Jah explains Common Core, state standards at parents’ breakfast

Dr. Daphne Jah (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Principal Dr. Daphne Jah recently explained Common Core concepts during “Breakfast with Dr. Jah” at West Madison Elementary School.

The phrases ‘Common Core’ and ‘Alabama College and Career Readiness Standards’ (CCRS) can confuse people. “Alabama has chosen to use College and Career Readiness Standards. (The state) has added some skills and requirements to Common Core in math and other areas,” Jah said.

When the school year opened, West Madison’s faculty discussed “where we are and where we want to go,” Jah said. Yearly, they focus on a couple of goals and then progress to new ones.

The educators selected “instructional targets,” such as “higher-order thinking.” For this CCRS requirement, students are solving word problems and reading more non-fiction — up to 70 percent.

“CCRS aren’t old standards with a new name put on it,” Jah said. “Expectations are higher.”

Businesses have told educators that high school graduates cannot work collaboratively. “They can’t read something and solve a problem,” she said. “CCRS is an answer. Instead of watered-down curriculum, it’s much more rigorous.”

Along with defining standards, Jah stated ways for parents to help their children at home. “Parents can help by staying involved, informed and engaged,” she said and offered concrete suggestions for parents to reinforce their children’s study:

* Read with your child.

* Review and discuss their homework.

* Communicate with their teachers.

* Learn about the standards and how they affect your child’s education.

* Look through your child’s backpack each afternoon.

* Attend public meetings to learn more, like brown-bag lunch sessions that the Madison City Council of PTAs sponsors.

Common Core research reports that, for every 100 ninth-graders, 65 actually graduate from high school. Thirty-seven enter college, 24 are enrolled in the sophomore year and 12 graduate with a degree in six years. Only six get a good job after graduation.

“That’s scary. We don’t want this to be our kids,” Jah said.

To view Jah’s presentation, visit wmes.madisoncity.k12.al.us and click “Principal’s Corner.” Jah also recommends engageny.org.