Discontinuing the use of common core standards and assessments in the state
The impact of HB 2157 on state laws primarily revolves around educational governance and the criteria used to assess student achievement. By eliminating Common Core, the bill seeks to pave the way for alternative standards that the state believes may be more appropriate for local educational objectives. This can result in significant changes to curricula, assessments, and potentially the allocation of educational resources as the state develops or adopts new standards.
House Bill 2157 aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by discontinuing the use of Common Core standards and assessments within the state's educational framework. Specifically, the bill prohibits the State Board of Education from implementing the academic content standards and assessment methodologies associated with the Common Core, effective from July 1, 2023. This legislative move is presented as a means to localize and tailor educational standards to better fit the needs of West Virginia students and schools.
Sentiment regarding HB 2157 is mixed, reflecting the broader national debate on educational standards. Supporters argue that this bill promotes educational autonomy and allows state and local authorities to create curricula that are more aligned with the community's values and expectations. They contend that leaving behind a federal standard can empower educators and engage parents more effectively. However, critics of the bill express concerns that moving away from Common Core might lead to a fragmentation in educational quality across the state, potentially disadvantaging students who may require uniformity in educational standards for better preparedness in a global job market.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2157 include the fears of decreased accountability and assessment rigor without Common Core, which has been viewed by some as a structured approach to education. Opponents argue that the bill may lead to lower educational standards in certain districts and that individual schools may struggle with the transition to new standards without the foundational structure that Common Core provides. The debate reflects larger ideological divides over education policy, with implications for student outcomes depending on how these changes are implemented.