EDUCATION: Dr. Michael Roe holds a PTSA meeting addressing concerns about the new Common Core.
By Tim Chen, Staff Writer
Poly’s curriculum is transitioning to the Common Core, a new teaching standard centered around real-world application and reflection of knowledge. During this change, parents have expressed concerns regarding the new policy. To educate the parents about the major changes and their effects, Principal Dr. Michael Roe held a meeting on January 7. During the meeting Dr. Roe showcased Poly’s preparedness for the new change and answered any questions the parents had. The parents’ main concern was that the new policy is too difficult. Dr. Roe responded to parents’ concerns by stating, “In addition to teaching a kid to [master] content, you’re teaching a kid an ability to problem solve and persevere; agility and adaptability.” Dr. Roe said. This new policy will take kids from solving multiple choice problems to utilizing answers by applying them to real-world situations; “It’s application, all applications.”
The Common Core takes all the classes at Poly, no matter the level of difficulty, and explores the subjects further.“I would argue that Poly, as opposed to other places, is more ready for that change,” Dr. Roe said assuringly. Throughout the remainder of the year, there will be time set aside to prepare the staff for the new policies. Parents will be invited to attend those sessions. “You walk into a classroom, how do you know a kid’s thinking critically? That’s the biggest challenge we face,” Dr. Roe said. With these new Common Core standards, Poly is sure to take its education to the next level.