State efforts to create more rigorous standards in English and Mathematics show a remarkable degree of consistency. Out of Many, One: Toward Rigorous Common Core Standards from the Ground Up, a report from Achieve, Inc., details the common core that has emerged.

The report tracks voluntary standard-setting efforts in 16 early-adopter states, including Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas. Together, these states educate 38 percent of U.S. public school students.

"States are leading the way in identifying and setting real-world standards for student success," said Mike Cohen, president of Achieve. "A common core of college- and career-ready expectations in 16 states is a positive development. Rigorous state standards, anchored in real-world demands, are important because they can-and should-drive the rest of the education reform agenda." Cohen went on to add, "This is not about national standards or the federal government, it's about state leadership."

Specifically, the report found that across the board:

• States increased the rigor of their English and mathematics standards;
• State standards have a clear, well-defined common core in English and mathematics; and
• The common core was a byproduct of aligning standards to real-world demands.

Gene Wilhoit, executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers, stated, "As this report shows, a state-led effort is the fastest, most effective way to ensure that more students graduate from high school ready for college and career, a universally accepted goal."

Achieve, publisher of the report, launched the American Diploma Project (ADP) Network in 2005. That resource helps state policymakers collaborate with K-12 public education, postsecondary education, the business community and other state partners to identify the skills and knowledge required for their graduates to succeed after high school. All profiled states participate in ADP.

Out of Many, One: Toward Rigorous Common Core Standards from the Ground Up

Source: Achieve Press Release, New Report Shows States Taking Lead on Developing Rigorous, Common Core Standards