Mitchell County Schools is committed to delivering high-quality, research-based curriculum and instruction that supports the success of all students. The district prioritizes evidence-based practices, such as the Science of Reading, to ensure strong foundational skills in early education, particularly in literacy and math. By focusing on best practices, professional development for teachers, and fostering an environment of continuous improvement, Mitchell County Schools aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed academically. The district also emphasizes the importance of personalized learning, student engagement, and meeting the diverse needs of its learners to promote overall student achievement and long-term success.

The Curriculum and Instruction Department helps direct the implementation of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. North Carolina first established a Standard Course of Study in 1898. The North Carolina Standard Course of Study provides a set of competencies for each grade. Its objective is to ensure rigorous student academic performance standards that are uniform across the state. It is based on the philosophy of teaching and learning that is consistent with current research. We seek to support teachers with information on best teaching practices, resources, and professional development as they lead our students into the 21st Century.

North Carolina’s State Board of Education has adopted the Common Core State Standards, released by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and the Council of Chief State School Officers. With the adoption of these state-led education standards, North Carolina is in the first group of states to embrace clear and consistent goals for learning to prepare children for success in college and work.

North Carolina was one of the 48 states to participate in the state consortium led by governors and chief state school officers. Teachers, education advisors and other groups have provided valuable feedback to the groups working since fall 2009 to write the Common Core standards on behalf of the state consortium. With the release of the Common Core, it is up to each participating state to formally adopt the Core and to plan their state’s implementation.

These standards define the knowledge and skills students should have throughout their K-12 education so that they will graduate high school fully prepared for college and careers. The standards:

• Are aligned with college and work expectations

• Are clear, understandable and consistent

• Include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills

• Build upon strengths and lessons of current state standards

• Are informed by other top performing countries, so that all students are prepared to succeed in our global economy and society

• Are evidence- and research-based

Chief Academic Officers:

Kevin Huskins 6th - 12th

Email Kevin Huskins

828-766-2220

Jennifer Miller K-8th

Email Jennifer Miller

828-766-2228