Common Core Standards

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

When Arizona adopted these standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics, the documents became known as Arizona's Common Core Standards in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics.


Common Core Standards Informational Videos


Common Core Publications and Updates

Mesa Public Schools Implementation Update, February 2013  English | Spanish

Mesa Public Schools Implementation Update, October 2012

New Standards Increase Rigor in AZ Schools - AZ Republic opinion piece by Superintendent Cowan
September 2012

Core K-12 Standards are Here; Time is Running Out to Get on Board - East Valley Tribune opinion piece by Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction   October 2012

MPS Implementation Timeline for Arizona's Common Core Standards 
Revised May 2012 

Implementing the Common Core State Standards: The Role of the Elementary School Leader Action Brief  December 2012

Implementing the Common Core State Standards: The Role of the Secondary School Leader Action Brief  December 2012

Arizona Common Core Standards - Myths vs. Facts  Arizona Public Engagement Task Force 2013

AIMS to PARCC Transition  This webpage will provide you with current information in regard to Arizona’s transition from AIMS to the new PARCC assessment. This webpage will be updated as new information is available.