I’m a big proponent of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Maybe you are, too. Everyone can agree society should strive to provide students with challenging standards and objectives that will benefit them academically and professionally.

Common Core is great, but we can’t forget the hidden curriculum great teachers pass on to students–concepts such as inspiration, motivation, and grit. Mary Catherine Swanson, the founder of AVID, used the term “hidden curriculum” a lot. The longer I teach, the more I come to value these invisible traits teachers need not only employ in the classroom, but live by. This is how students’ emotional intelligence grows. It’s also how teachers stay motivated to help the neediest students.

I’m glad our nation is ironing out what will be taught academically. Now we must not neglect the hidden curriculum that’s necessary so our young people can truly thrive.