The Common Core and Homeschoolers
When we left the public schools after the 2011/2012 school year and started homeschooling, Common Core was just beginning to be implemented, so I don't know a lot about it. What I did know is that even then the testing had become out of control. The teachers I've talked to are all SO tired of only having time to “teach to the tests”, and the additional paperwork required is a huge cumbersome mess that just make their days more difficult.
The documentary on Common Core below is especially shocking starting at minute 12:04 where the validation committee is explained, and how those who didn't agree with the standards were kicked off with no record anywhere of their original role on the committee or which parts they didn't agree with. Why the secrets?
As homeschoolers, the scariest part is wondering how this will affect our own parental choices. Will these mandatory standards and testing requirements take away the option of homeschooling for future generations?
I love how the documentary ends:
“Decades of research show that the single most important element in a child's education is parental involvement. So, regardless of which side you support in the reformation of America's schools… Be involved.”
Watch it here and let us know what you think in the comments:
Note, this video isn't working and I don't know why. Here's the site for more info about the film called, “Building the Machine”.
- Find all of my posts on homeschooling here – How we made the decision to do it in the first place, various struggles I've come up against, and more…
Peggy says
My concern is more for my grandchildren than my own children. I only have four years of homeschooling left, and with as much push back as Common Core is getting right now, I don’t think it will have much impact on my children. However, a national curriculum IS the goal and standardized thinking is the goal. To achieve that end, homeschoolers will eventually have to toe the line as well, as will college admissions and job placement. All this will take time to accomplish, and standing up and voicing opposition slows the process. Homeschooling (for now) is a convenient “out” but I hope homeschoolers don’t remove their voices from the process, because believe me, they will come for us, too.
Sarah says
Hi Kelly,
I really enjoyed this movie as it gave me an overview of the Common Core Curriculum, which I have not looked into much. It is disturbing. What was more disturbing for me though is that I recognized the tendency to get caught up in the machine mentality about trying to get a better grade in a subject for my children. It bothers me when they are pulling a 60% average in a subject. They get the new material however it is all silly mistakes of not paying attention in math that pulls it down so far (Saxon Math that is divided in new material and review material). I feel like it is a poor reflection of me. Hmmm…it is not all about me but tryint to nurture this child and not throw into the gears of machine!!
Thank you for this link,
Sarah
Sarah says
Sorry about the errors. Someday I will learn to proofread before pressing send!