Implement the CCSS with AI/AN students through expanded resources, localization of reform, and specialized extended professional development¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The report recommends that CCSS implementation in AI/AN communities combine an "expansive" resource approach addressing community social needs with adaptation of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to local cultural contexts. Teachers need "high-quality, extended professional development" covering both the reform and AI/AN cultures, languages, and interactional styles; the report notes research showing "at least 50 hours of professional development is required for any education innovation." Administrators also need substantial professional development to support implementation.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Professional development must go beyond generic modules designed for mainstream teachers and be delivered by experts knowledgeable about AI/AN students and contexts
• Appropriate resources tailored to local curricula and contexts must be identified or developed by professional communities of teachers within districts

Constraints¶

• The report notes the gap is more likely to widen than narrow given the level of the standards and resources needed, particularly for the least well-served students
• Holding teachers to effective implementation is fair only when they are given adequate professional development and resources

Target Learners¶

• American Indian and Alaska Native K-12 students

Target Learning Goals¶

• College and career readiness under the Common Core State Standards in English language arts and mathematics

Related Strategies¶

• Teach AI/AN students through place-based content, culturally familiar interaction patterns, and culturally harmonious assessment integrated with the CCSS
• Implement ethnic studies curricula with locally grounded development, compensated education partners, and sustained professional learning

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Nelson-Barber, S., & Trumbull, E. (2015). The Common Core Initiative, Education Outcomes, and American Indian/Alaska Native Students: Observations and Recommendations [a report from the Center on Standards & Assessment Implementation (CSAI) at WestEd]. San Francisco: WestEd. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED570362