Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S396

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

For the end of Common Core, and establishing certain other curriculum standards

Impact

If enacted, S396 would significantly alter the educational landscape in Massachusetts. It plans to rescind the 2010 adoption of the Common Core standards and re-establish older frameworks that had been in effect prior to that date. By reinstating these frameworks, the bill aims to enhance educational standards and mitigate any adverse impacts attributed to the Common Core curriculum, which some believe have hindered student performance and educational quality.

Summary

S396, titled 'An Act for the end of Common Core, and establishing certain other curriculum standards,' aims to abolish the existing Common Core curriculum in Massachusetts and restore previous curriculum frameworks for Mathematics and English Language Arts. The bill seeks to address widespread concerns among parents, educators, and community members regarding the efficacy and implications of the Common Core system implemented in 2010. It highlights a growing sentiment towards the need for enhanced curriculum standards that align more closely with the educational needs of Massachusetts students.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S396 center on the debate about educational standards versus local control. Supporters argue that moving away from Common Core will allow for more tailored educational approaches suited to local communities. Critics, however, might view this as a regressive step that undermines systemic educational improvements initiated by Common Core. The potential implications for teacher training, curriculum development, and student assessment methods will need careful consideration, especially given the bill's intent to involve educators and academics in establishing new standards.

Companion Bills

MA S2792

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Education, to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to education matters.

Previously Filed As

MA SB00038

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Review Certain Social Studies Curriculum Standards.

MA H589

Relative to science curriculum standards

MA S1723

Establishing the Massachusetts correctional officer accountability and standards training Commission

MA H3405

Establishing permanent standard time within the Commonwealth to promote sleep and health

MA S240

Establishing a standardized problem gambling disclaimer and helpline

MA A2595

Creates advisory council to oversee revision of core curriculum content standards.

MA S2378

To update and standardize transit definitions in the Commonwealth

MA H3813

To update and standardize transit definitions in the Commonwealth

MA SB916

Education - Curriculum Standards - Requirements (Educate to Stop the Hate Act)

MA S2681

Establishing safety standards for BMX bicycle and motorcross tracks

Similar Bills

MD SB916

Education - Curriculum Standards - Requirements (Educate to Stop the Hate Act)

MI HB4159

Education: curriculum; core academic curriculum requirements; modify. Amends sec. 1278 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1278).

MI HB5364

Education: other; revision to state academic standards; require approval of the legislature for. Amends sec. 1278 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1278).

NJ A2595

Creates advisory council to oversee revision of core curriculum content standards.

CA AB1414

Landlord-tenant: internet service provider subscriptions.

MD HB161

County Boards of Education - Curriculum Guides and Courses of Study - Discrepancies

NJ S1962

Directs State Board of Education to rescind New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education and directs boards of education to establish Parental Advisory Committees and adopt standards for health instruction.

NJ A2880

Directs State Board of Education to rescind New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education and directs boards of education to establish Parental Advisory Committees and adopt standards for health instruction.