Iowa Academic Standards
One central component of a great school system is a clear set of expectations, or standards, that educators help all students reach. In Iowa, that effort is known as the Iowa Academic Standards.
The statewide academic standards, describe what students should know and be able to do in math, science, English language arts and social studies. They also address 21st century skills in areas such as financial and technology literacy.
These standards provide Iowa students, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders with a clear, common understanding of what students are expected to learn at every grade level, regardless of where they live.
The standards establish what Iowa students need to learn, but do not encompass how they should be taught. Local schools and teachers continue to create lesson plans and tailor instruction to fit the needs of their students.
