April 25, 2013
Dear_________________________:
As your constituent, I am asking that you consider putting forth a bill to withdraw New York State
from the Common Core. As you may know, in November 2009, the Race to the Top Program
was introduced. It was a competition in which $4.35 billion dollars in grant money would be
divided among states that implemented plans in four core education reform areas. The first on
that list was “adopting standards and assessments that prepare students to succeed in college
and the workplace and to compete in the global economy.” I know at the time, the criterion for
the RttT was vague, so many states including New York jumped on board and we received the
maximum amount of $700 million.
Now a few years later, we are realizing the results of our actions. All public schools now have
the Common Core Standards. According to a NY Times article, to implement the Common Core
in New York City, it will take about $56 million dollars to cover just the costs of buying new
English and math materials for students in only kindergarten through eighth grade. Also,
according to Gotham Schools, the city has already spent $125 million in private and federal
funds to create materials and train teachers and principals in the standards. As you can clearly
see, the Common Core comes at an enormous price tag for the taxpayer. With implementation
spread out over the next three years, costs will keep increasing as Regents Exams will measure
the Common Core in the upcoming school year, as well as new testing with the PARCC
assessments the following year.
I am asking you to consider a bill similar to the SB167 that the state of Georgia put forth
recently. The bill is to withdraw Georgia from their Common Core requirement.
This issue is very important to me, especially as a parent. I am part of a large grassroots
movement of parents and we represent thousands of voices. I would like to speak to you
concerning this issue as soon as possible.
Thank you for your consideration and look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Address
Phone number