Gearing Up to Teach the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics in Rural Northeast Region Schools

Recent survey data indicate that educators in small, rural schools often feel isolated and overburdened when asked to make substantial improvements in their math and science teaching and often desire additional instructional resources and supports. Educators in the rural Northeast Region reported challenges in implementing the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM), including time and support for teachers to change their instructional practices to meet the CCSSM, availability of high-quality instructional materials, and opportunities for collaboration.

Key Findings

• States are providing web resources, establishing collaboration networks, and offering professional development opportunities to support CCSSM implementation.
• Most teachers have access to CCSSM informational resources—about half have access to district- and school-based professional development opportunities.
• Ongoing needs include time, support, instructional materials, and opportunities for collaboration.