The Oklahoma Academic Standards (OAS) are a set of expectations `for what students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. The standards were written by Oklahomans for Oklahoma and serve as a critical component to ensuring that Oklahoma students receive current and relevant learning experiences that prepare them for college, career, and citizenship
The OAS is not a curriculum, but rather a set of expectations for what students should know and be able to do by the end of the school year. The subject matter standards do not dictate how teachers should teach but rather focus on deep thinking, conceptual understanding, and real-world problem-solving skills.
Genesis
Before the 1990s, Oklahoma’s education system lacked a unified set of academic standards. This patchwork quilt of local and regional benchmarks led to inconsistencies in learning outcomes and hindered statewide comparisons. Recognizing this disparity, the Oklahoma State Department of Education embarked on a mission to establish cohesive standards, ensuring every student received a high-quality education, regardless of location.
It was 2010 when the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) were adopted for English language arts and mathematics for grades K-12. This caused a need for each state to adopt standards to align with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Each state had the authority to create its methods, as long as they adhered to the CCSS.
The development of these standards began with the Oklahoma Academic Standards (OAS), which were created to outline the expectations for what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. The genesis of these standards can be traced back to the state’s recognition of the importance of setting clear learning objectives to enhance educational outcomes.
Building the Framework: Collaboration and Rigor
The development of the Oklahoma Academic Standards was a collaborative effort, drawing upon the expertise of educators, parents, subject matter specialists, and community members. National benchmarks and best practices were also considered, culminating in a rigorous framework encompassing core knowledge and essential skills across various subjects.
The OAS is thoroughly reviewed by the State Board every six years according to and in coordination with the existing subject area textbook adoption cycle. The development, review, and revision process involves stakeholders throughout the state of Oklahoma and is an ongoing and critical component to ensuring Oklahoma students in every classroom receive current and relevant learning experiences that prepare them for college, career, and citizenry.
The process of structuring the academic standards in Oklahoma involved collaboration among educators, administrators, and stakeholders. Workgroups were often formed to review and revise standards, ensuring they aligned with best practices and addressed the evolving needs of students. Subject areas such as mathematics, English language arts, science, and social studies were covered comprehensively to provide a well-rounded education. The standards aimed to establish a framework that would guide curriculum development and instructional strategies across the state.
Present Day: Continuous Improvement and Challenges
The Oklahoma Academic Standards have undergone regular revisions to reflect current needs and educational advancements. The latest round of updates in 2023 saw the integration of computer science and financial literacy standards, preparing students for the demands of the 21st century. However, challenges remain. Concerns regarding standardized testing pressures, funding disparities, and teacher shortages continue to be addressed to ensure equitable access to quality education for all Oklahoma students.
Oklahoma academic standards have been closely tied to statewide assessments. Standardized testing has played a crucial role in gauging student proficiency and evaluating the overall effectiveness of the education system. The alignment between standards and assessments aimed to provide a comprehensive picture of student learning and guide further improvements in the educational process.
Oklahoma’s journey with academic standards is a testament to the state’s commitment to educational excellence. From the initial patchwork to the current cohesive framework, the standards have continuously evolved to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. As Oklahoma refines its standards and tackles existing challenges, its students stand poised to write the next chapter in the Sooner State’s story of success.
You can check your Oklahoma School Report Card at the https://oklaschools.com/ site.
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