Today’s moderator: Maureen Downey

Maureen Downey has written about local, state and federal education policy at the AJC for 12 years. She’s also taught college classes in mass communications and journalism. However, she’s learned more about schools from having four children in them.

»Join the discussion online today: Share your opinions and ideas on Maureen's blog Get Schooled.

Georgia’s decision last week to pull out of a national effort to create a test aligned to the new Common Core State Standards was both vilified and praised. Some saw it as a signal that Georgia is not ready to shed its reputation for educational mediocrity. Others saw it as a strike for state sovereignty. Today’s page explores the topic, including state school Superintendent John Barge’s defense of the withdrawal.

State's core values by Maureen Downey

Guest columnists:

Georgia isn't retreating from rigor by John Barge

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com