In an effort to ensure that K–12 students are prepared for college and careers, a consortium of states collaborated beginning in 2009 to develop the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects and the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. These standards, referred to as the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), reflect expectations of higher education and the workforce. The needs of the workforce continue to evolve and globalism demands that students are prepared for multiple careers. Elevated education expectations are necessary for graduates to earn a self-sustaining wage, participate in postsecondary educational opportunities without the need for remediation, and engage in civic and community endeavors. This entry provides an overview of the CCSS including ...