California has long boasted exceptional state standards in the core subjects, and its History/Social Science Framework is a beacon of excellence. Meanwhile West Virginia’s standards range from mediocre (science) to awful (U.S. history). According to the Fordham Institute, West Virginia’s US history standards “impart next to nothing of value.” So why would California choose to follow West Virginia’s “lead” and embrace the 21st century skills movement?Bill Evers, former assistant secretary for policy at the Department of Education and longtime research fellow at the Hoover Institution, reports that California may move to water down its standards by adopting the 21st century skills framework. Evers heard California State Schools Superintendent Jack O’Connell tell the EdSource Forum in Irvine that California ought to revise state standards:
“In order to fully engage both students and teachers in the learning process in a way that sees both parties benefit and helps to better prepare students for success in the economy of the 21st century.”
California’s History/Social Science Framework has held the bar high for Golden State students since 1998. We humbly suggest that Superintendent O’Connell adhere to a tried-and-true maxim: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Lynne Munson