Final answer:
The decision on who should set curriculum and textbook standards is contested, involving a balance between expert knowledge and democratic accountability. The experience with Common Core underscores the complexity, as experts initially craft policies that later face challenges and criticisms from various stakeholders including teachers- unions, indicating the importance of broad consultation and consideration of funding disparities across communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether elected representatives should make curriculum and textbook standards for a state, or if this task should be assigned to a different group, is a complex issue that encompasses aspects of education policy, governmental structure, and democratic representation. The debate mirrors wider discussions about tasks traditionally performed by unelected appointees. Concerning curriculum and textbook standards, some argue that elected officials, accountable to their constituents, should oversee these decisions to ensure they align with the public's values and needs. However, others advocate for educational experts to set these standards, as they possess specialized knowledge and experience to make informed decisions that may be beyond the purview of generalist elected officials. Factors in this debate include the expertise required to develop educational standards, the potential for politicization of the curriculum, and the importance of building a broad consensus among stakeholders such as teachers, parents, and administrators.
The Common Core State Standards provide a relevant case study. Initially supported by teachers' unions, they have faced criticism over the assessment process and the high-stakes implications for students and schools. As the standards require comprehensive changes including teacher training and textbook revisions, the quality and equitability of education across differing local funding landscapes become pressing concerns. It is essential to balance the need for expert-led educational content with the democratic values of representation and accountability.