Common Core Standards

Currently, learning by students in Oklahoma classrooms is based on standards set by the State of Oklahoma: “Priority Academic Student Skills,” better known by the acronym “PASS.” PASS is a set of specific standards covering all areas of students’ academic growth: English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts and world languages. PASS lays out in detail the essential skills and concepts students should learn at each grade level. These standards guide teachers and school leaders as they plan instruction for students and assessment of their learning.

What’s true in Oklahoma is true in other states as well. In the U.S., each state sets its own standards for learning. However, that’s about to change.

Oklahoma is one of 44 states that has adopted the Common Core State Standards. Common Core State Standards are national standards, and in a few short years will replace Oklahoma’s PASS and other state standards.

The Common Core State Standards Initiative was a state-led effort coordinated by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and the Council of Chief State School Officers. The standards were drafted in collaboration with teachers, school administrators and other experts to provide a clear and consistent framework to prepare children for college and the workforce.

Initial feedback on the draft standards came from many national organizations, including those representing teachers, postsecondary educators (including community colleges), civil rights groups, English language learners, students with disabilities. Following the initial round of feedback, the draft standards were opened for public comment, receiving nearly 10,000 responses.

These Common Core standards define the knowledge and skills students across the U.S. should have in their K-12 education careers so that they will graduate high school able to succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing academic college courses and in workforce training programs. The standards:

  • Build upon strengths and lessons of current state standards
  • Include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills
  • Are informed by other top-performing countries, so that all students are prepared to succeed in our global economy and society
  • Are evidence-based
  • Are aligned with college and work expectations


To read an informative white paper on Common Core Standards from the International Center for Leadership in Education, click here.