Campaign for High School Equity to emphasize potential of common standards to level the playing field for minority and low-income students

Washington—Many students are disadvantaged by low expectations that result from wide variability in the quality, rigor, and alignment of state public education standards. But never has it been more important than in the current economic climate to ensure that all students graduate from high school prepared for college and the modern workforce. The Campaign for High School Equity (CHSE), a diverse coalition of national civil rights groups addressing education quality and equality, will highlight common academic standards as a solution at a July 24 Congressional briefing. The organization will also stress the importance of engaging communities of color to ensure that their perspectives are included in the development and implementation of common standards.

WHAT:            Briefing: “Communities of Color: A Critical Perspective in the Common Standards Movement”        

WHO:              Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM)

Michael Wotorson, executive director, Campaign for High School Equity

Brent A. Wilkes, national executive director, League of United Latin American Citizens

Gene Wilhoit, executive director, Council of Chief State School Officers

Denise Forte, director of education policy, House Committee on Education and Labor

Dr. David Beaulieu, director, Center for Indian Education, Arizona State University

WHEN:            Friday, July 24, 2009

9:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

WHERE:          366 Dirksen Building

U.S Senate