Full implementation of Common Core State Standards (CCSS) systems will occur over several years and in the context of a continuous learning process.
- The Awareness Phase represents an introduction to the CCSS, the initial planning of systems implementation, and establishment of collaborations.
- The Transition Phase is the concentration on building foundational resources, implementing needs assessments, establishing new professional learning opportunities, and expanding collaborations between all stakeholders.
- The Implementation Phase expands the new professional learning support, fully aligns curriculum, instruction, and assessments, and effectively integrates these elements across the field.
Each of California’s local educational agencies (LEAs) is in the process of developing its own local plan for CCSS systems implementation based on local needs and resources. The California Department of Education fully recognizes and supports the idea that there are many different ways to approach the challenges of transforming our standards-based system, and expects that local implementation plans and strategies will be as diverse as the state itself.
This online CCSS systems implementation guide was developed to support local plan development. It includes numerous suggestions and resources organized by the seven guiding strategies of the CCSS Systems Implementation Plan for California. The guide will be updated regularly as new resources become available. To remain apprised of the latest developments in CCSS systems implementation, please subscribe to the CCSS Resources Listserv and Smarter Balanced
E-mail Updates.
- Guiding Strategy 1
Facilitate high quality professional learning opportunities for educators to ensure that every student has access to teachers who are prepared to teach to the levels of rigor and depth required by the CCSS.
- Guiding Strategy 2
Provide CCSS-aligned instructional resources designed to meet the diverse needs of all students.
- Guiding Strategy 3
Develop and transition to CCSS-aligned assessment systems to inform instruction, establish priorities for professional learning, and provide tools for accountability.
- Guiding Strategy 4
Collaborate with parents, guardians, and the early childhood and expanded learning communities to integrate the CCSS into programs and activities beyond the K–12 school setting.
- Guiding Strategy 5
Collaborate with the postsecondary and business communities and additional stakeholders to ensure that all students are prepared for success in career and college.
- Guiding Strategy 6
Seek, create, and disseminate resources to support stakeholders as CCSS systems implementation moves forward.
- Guiding Strategy 7
Design and establish systems of effective communication among stakeholders to continuously identify areas of need and disseminate information.
