Action Items

Take a stand. Repeal the Common Core State Standards.

Parents across New York have grown increasingly concerned about the direction of standardized testing and the rigid curriculum imposed by the Common Core standards. Many feel that these benchmarks were developed without meaningful input from educators and families, leaving children stressed and teachers frustrated. By taking action now, families can help restore local control over what happens in classrooms. It is time to demand that our students receive an education that nurtures critical thinking and creativity rather than teaching to a test. Joining together with like-minded neighbors strengthens the call for change and sends a clear message to policymakers.

The movement to repeal the Common Core State Standards is not about opposing high expectations for students, but about insisting on the right standards developed by the right people. Parents and teachers alike have reported that the one-size-fits-all approach fails to account for the diverse needs of children across different communities. Opt-out efforts have gained momentum as families refuse to subject their children to excessive testing that consumes valuable instructional time. Supporting resolutions at the local and state level gives elected officials the mandate they need to act. Every voice added to this cause helps build unstoppable momentum.

Beyond testing and curriculum concerns, there are serious questions about student data privacy that accompany the Common Core framework. The collection of detailed information on young children raises alarms for families who want to protect their children's personal records from being shared or misused. Federal laws like FERPA provide some safeguards, but many parents believe stronger protections are necessary. Staying informed about data privacy issues allows families to make educated decisions about their children's participation in certain programs. Knowledge is power when it comes to safeguarding the next generation from unwarranted surveillance and data mining.

Community involvement remains the most powerful tool for families who wish to see the Common Core standards repealed. Attending school board meetings, connecting with other concerned parents, and sharing resources are all effective ways to amplify the message. Many local organizations have formed to coordinate efforts across counties, providing a network of support for those who feel isolated in their opposition. Social media and neighborhood gatherings offer platforms for spreading awareness about the negative impacts of these standards. When families unite behind the goal of educational freedom, they create a force that decision-makers cannot afford to ignore.