State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Invites Comment
on Draft History–Social Science Framework
SACRAMENTO— State Superintendent Tom Torlakson announced today that California is moving forward to improve the way educators teach history and social science by gathering public comment on a new framework.
"By updating the framework, California is making sure students benefit from the latest methods of teaching history and social sciences," Torlakson said. "Learning these subjects helps students understand and shape the world around them, which will better prepare them for college and careers."
The draft History–Social Science Framework for California Public Schools, Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve (Framework) will provide guidance for teachers, administrators, and parents on how to implement a curriculum, based on content standards in the classroom. The draft covers more recent historical events, reflects changes in the law since the last framework was adopted in 2001, and helps educators teach the critical analytical skills students need for 21st century careers.
The draft Framework and a "field review" survey are now posted on the California Department of Education's History–Social Science Curriculum Frameworks Web page. In addition to participating in the online survey, people may also send comments on the draft Framework to hssframework@cde.ca.gov. The comment period will remain open until November 25, 2014.
All public comments received during the field review survey will be presented to the Instructional Quality Commission this winter for review and possible inclusion into the final Framework. There will be a second public review in the spring of 2015. The State Board of Education is scheduled to take action on the final Framework by May 2015.
For more information on the development of the draft Framework, visit the California Department of Education's History–Social Science Curriculum Frameworks Web page.
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Tom Torlakson — State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Communications Division, Room 5206, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100
Communications Division, Room 5206, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100