CHARLESTON -- A national program to help students, K-12, excel in math and English will make its way to the Mountain State. West Virginia is one of 51-states and territories to participate in the Common Core State Standards Initiative. The core standards will focus on fewer concepts while stressing deeper learning and understanding.

The state school board says higher standards will be bench-marked against international standards and test scores.

Officials say the program will help better prepare today's students for college or careers. States can voluntarily adopt the standards, or add additional standards. School board officials expect to adopt the new standards in spring.

You can find out more information visiting our Featured Links section by clicking here.