Jindal Stops in Atlanta to Lend Deal Support

“I think the intent behind Common Core was good,” Jindal said. “I think the idea behind strong standards is a great thing. What I don’t like is the federal government trying to force states to be in Common Core.”

The Education Department doesn’t require the standards. But Jindal said states felt pressured. He said many opted in to help their chances of receiving federal grants and waivers.       

Georgia had a legislative battle over the Common Core this year. An opt-out bill failed. But Gov. Deal has asked the state school board to review the standards. As to whether he’ll follow Jindal’s lead by filing a lawsuit, Deal said he’ll await the review’s results.

“Obviously, I share many of the sentiments that Gov. Jindal has expressed,” Deal said. “We certainly do not want the federal government dictating curriculum. We certainly do not want to be coerced into things we don’t think are correct for our state and I will be watching his lawsuit with great interest.”

State lawmakers have also formed a committee, which is investigating the federal government’s role in education.

Gov. Jindal also promoted expanding charter schools, a key measure in his reform efforts in Louisiana. He said the idea isn’t to turn all schools in to charters, but to give parents choices.

“We like to say in this country that we believe in equality of opportunity, and I believe that’s what this country stands for,” he said. “If we mean it, it starts with making sure that every child gets a great education because if they don’t, it’s very hard for them to participate in this economy.”

Gov. Deal said he wants that for Georgia students, especially ones who would otherwise attend “failing” schools.