Fate of New Indiana School Standards Unclear

Gov. Mike Pence is backing a legislative plan that would "pause'' Indiana's adoption of national Common Core education standards.

Pence is waiting to review a bill approved by lawmakers last week that would suspend implementation of the reading and math benchmarks in more grades for a year while new state reviews are done.

How serious Pence is about changing those standards might be known this summer when he can replace six of 10 State Board of Education members who've unanimously supported their adoption.

Pence said he believes the standards need a fair and serious look.

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce and other Common Core supporters say the state's education officials have been reviewing the benchmarks for years and that the additional review isn't necessary.