CCSS and the CCSS: California Council for the Social Studies's Response

We had a question the other day about where CCSS stands regarding the Common Core Standards.  While we wholeheartedly support the implementation of state mandates as illustrated by our Common Core Boot Camp 2.0, March 7-8, there is concern from some the Common Core Standards might contribute to the lessening of social studies curriculum.  I think it is a pertinent question.   If it is a concern to some, it may be a concern to many.  I am posting part of the response to that teacher from our Government Relations Chair, Jim Hill.  To see his occasional paper go to our website, CCSS.org.  (Marsha Ingrao, CCSS President 2013-2014)

from Jim Hill

The essential direction of CCSS (the original CCSS....) is to strengthen social studies K-12, as doing so increases the ability of students to function and participate as the informed citizenry envisioned by Jefferson. 

What has been driving curriculum in Calif K-12 for the past 15 years is the assessment/accountability package. Right now, social studies will not be tested in K-12 for the next few years. According to the 484 legislation, the CDE has to present a plan to test social studies as part of the 'additional to common core' testing the CDE wants to put in place. The CDE itself criticizes the now defunct assessment program for in part narrowing the curriculum. I cite from the CDE proposals at length in my occasional paper, which this teacher might look at. Some of this new assessment can be performance assessment, and some will be at local levels. 

So, I would suggest, CCSS is the organization trying to maintain, and improve, social studies in California. No one else is really doing that, really; other organizations propose only one particular field of study. 

CCSS is working in concert with National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) and local councils is doing everything possible to keep SS on the political radar screen.  NCSS has published a National Framework for Social Studies, the Vision for  College, Career, and Civic Life (C3)  Both the President and President-Elect will be presenting at our Conference about the C3 Framework.  In addition, the Director and a Board member from Oregon will also present on this and other topics.  So in that respect, you can come and meet and talk to them yourself, and make an educated decision about the organizations.


Social studies teachers who are involved with like minded SS educators through the professional organization of CCSS gives us the energy and strength to fight for our existence. United we stand! Divided we fall! Please join us in March at our conference in Los Angeles. 

CCSS is the premiere professional organization that unites all social studies fields with the political voice, career growth opportunities, and peer collaboration through excellent conferences, cutting edge publications, and local council development.