Not exactly how it works . First of all , states are not required to adopt common core standards , although many do . States utilize statewide tests to assess these standards , it ' s not at the discretion of teachersschools to make that determination . Further these standards don ' t really dictate if someone passes a gradeclass . Rather they are suggestions for skills and learning objectives that kids should learn at each grade . This would ensure that regardless of where a student goes to school , they know the same skills of their same ages peers . This keeps us competitive on the international level . Sure , not all kids will pursue higher education and some may land in vocational training , manual labor , etc . The concept though is to make sure that all students know the same skills and learning objectives regardless of where they are .