A new poll commissioned by Excellent Schools Now, an education reform coalition, shows strong support by voters and teachers for better performance data, as well as agreement that the U.S. education system is not producing college- and career-ready students. Key poll results are here.  

The group polled 500 voters and 500 teachers in late December and early January. On major issues, the groups align well. For example:

• 68% of voters and 71% of teachers agree: Common learning standards (Common Core State Standards) in English and math will improve student learning and achievement.

• 81% of voters and 79% of teachers agree: Common learning standards allow for better comparability and monitoring between different states.

And:

• 58% of voters and 54% of teachers agree: Washington should use common statewide measures of student growth as a factor in teacher and principal evaluation.

Differences emerge on some significant areas finance and accountability under consideration this session. Teachers don't like letter grades.

• 64% of voters and 14% of teachers agree:Washington should adopt a letter-grade ‘A-F’ system on reporting which schools are not serving students well.

And voters aren't quite as enthusiastic about a tax hike.

• 45% of voters and 70% of teachers agree: Washington should increase funding for K-12, even if it requires an increase in taxes.

Discuss.