Resources+-+PA+and+US

**Standards Aligned System - Pennsylvania Department of Education**
The Pennsylvania Standards Aligned System (SAS) is a collaborative product of research and good practice that identifies six distinct elements which, if utilized together, will provide schools and districts a common framework for continuous school and district enhancement and improvement. Much research has been conducted as to what makes a great school. There are many intangible components; however, research supports the notion that great schools and school systems tend to have six common elements that ensure Student Achievement: Clear Standards, Fair Assessments, Curriculum Framework, Instruction, Materials & Resources, and Interventions.

Explore the Standards Aligned System website.

**Keystone Exams**
The Keystone Exams are end‐of‐course assessments designed to assess proficiency in various subject areas: Algebra I, Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry, Civics and Government, English Composition, Geometry, Literature, U.S. History, and World History. The Keystone Exams are one component of Pennsylvania's high school graduation requirements. Students must also earn state specified credits, fulfil the state’s service‐learning and attendance requirements, and complete any additional local school system requirements to receive a Pennsylvania high school diploma. For detailed information about how the Keystone Exams are being integrated into the Pennsylvania graduation requirements, please contact the Pennsylvania Department of Education or visit the website at [|www.education.state.pa.us].

Click on the link to find a [|Keystone Exam Program Overview].

**Common Core State Standards Initiative**
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.

The NGA Center and CCSSO received initial feedback on the draft standards from national organizations representing, but not limited to, teachers, postsecondary educators (including community colleges), civil rights groups, English language learners, and students with disabilities. Following the initial round of feedback, the draft standards were opened for public comment, receiving nearly 10,000 responses. The standards are informed by the highest, most effective models from states across the country and countries around the world, and provide teachers and parents with a common understanding of what students are expected to learn. Consistent standards will provide appropriate benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live.

These standards define the knowledge and skills students should have within their K-12 education careers so that they will graduate high school able to succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing academic college courses and in workforce training programs. The standards:


 * Are aligned with college and work expectations;
 * Are clear, understandable and consistent;
 * Include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills;
 * Build upon strengths and lessons of current state standards;
 * Are informed by other top performing countries, so that all students are prepared to succeed in our global economy and society; and
 * Are evidence-based.