New learning standards spur debate in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Educational goals being implemented in Michigan schools have sparked a contentious debate in Lansing, pitting Republican Gov. Rick Snyder against the Republican-led Legislature that is taking steps to halt the standards.

In 2010, Michigan’s State Board of Education adopted the Common Core State Standards benchmarks in reading, writing and math, which 44 other states have adopted. The standards, developed by the National Governors Association and Council of Chief State School Officers, are designed to provide clear goals for teachers, boost student performance and allow for educational cooperation and comparison among states.