“Earlier this year, I voted to delay the effects of high-stakes testing associated with the Common Core in order to address the poor rollout of new education standards. As students continue to adjust to the Common Core, it’s important to remember that teachers are also adjusting and learning how to effectively implement the curriculum. It’s essential that they are not penalized if they are legitimately trying to provide a good education to the best of their abilities.

“By taking the Common Core test results out of evaluations for two years, we can alleviate the burden our hardworking educators are experiencing and give these teachers ample opportunity to fit their instruction to the Common Core.

“Teacher evaluations have a place in our educational system. This legislation (A.10168) does not change that. If a teacher is still rated as ineffective or developing with Common Core test results out of the mix, there will be real consequences. The bottom line is we need to ensure our kids are receiving a quality education that prepares them for the 21st century economy.”