The debate over the Common Core State Standards has been fraught with myths and misinformation. As New Hampshire considers a variety of bills this legislative session, you might find yourself wondering: What is the Common Core? Why do we need it? NPR breaks down these questions and more:

What is the Common Core? The Common Core State Standards Initiative is the largest-ever attempt in the United States to set unified expectations for what students in kindergarten through 12th grade should know and be able to do in each grade in preparation for college and the workforce. In short, the standards are meant to get every student in America on the same page. Right now, the Common Core standards cover two areas: math and English language arts (writing and reading). They were developed by a group of governors, chief state school officers and education experts from 48 states. To date, 44 states and the District of Columbia have formally adopted the new standards. By Spring of 2015, most of these states plan to administer state tests that have been aligned to the new standards.

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