She said she saw positive reactions. But the whole approach to imposing statewide curriculum standards on local school districts has generated considerable controversy within Missouri. Critics have charged the standards are an infringement on the autonomy of local schools and de-emphasize teaching of basic skills in math, reading and writing. But Iris Roberts, a Jefferson City High School teacher who helped to write the standards, said local school districts will maintain their prerogative to set their own curricula. But the standards' supporters reminded the board there is still much work to be done before the standards can be put into action.
Frameworks are outlines of classroom activities for all different grade levels and subjects.
Missourians can see the proposed standards before December if they have a connection to the World Wide Web. The Education Department established a web site where the public can read the standards. The web site also gives the e-mail address of Orlo Shroyer so the public can comment directly.