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Schools face incomplete data after Common Core test troubles

FILE - In this Jan. 6, 2015 file photo, Common Core opponents wave signs and cheer at a rally opposing Mississippi's continued use of the Common Core academic standards on the steps of the Capitol in Jackson, Miss. Results for some of the states that participated in Common Core-aligned testing for the first time this spring are out, with overall scores higher than expected though still below what many parents may be accustomed to seeing. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis,File)
FILE - In this Jan. 6, 2015 file photo, Common Core opponents wave signs and cheer at a rally opposing Mississippi's continued use of the Common Core academic standards on the steps of the Capitol in Jackson, Miss. Results for some of the states that participated in Common Core-aligned testing for the first time this spring are out, with overall scores higher than expected though still below what many parents may be accustomed to seeing. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis,File) FILE - In this Jan. 6, 2015 file photo, Common Core opponents wave signs and cheer at a rally opposing Mississippi's continued use of the Common Core academic standards on the steps of the Capitol in Jackson, Miss. Results for some of the states that participated in Common Core-aligned testing for the first time this spring are out, with overall scores higher than expected though still below what many parents may be accustomed to seeing. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis,File)

By Associated Press 5 min read

LAS VEGAS (AP) – Last school year, Common Core-aligned standardized tests marched forward, going from paper-and-pencil to the computer to allow for questions to adapt in difficulty based on a student’s answer. A new baseline of testing data was expected as a result. However, many states had technical issues with the electronic form that left them unable to complete the testing. Others saw an unprecedented spread of refusals. That means a new school year without complete testing data in many areas.

Below, we look at the impact of the incomplete data on teachers, students and districts:

WHAT IS COMMON CORE AND WHY IS IT SO CONTROVERSIAL?

Common Core is a set of standards that determine what kids should learn and when. It’s not a curriculum and doesn’t determine how kids learn.

Adopted in 42 states, it was developed by governors and state school superintendents with the input of teachers, experts and community members in hopes that it could align the basics of education across the country.