LOS ANGELES (AP) - California's top education official is expected to unveil a new system of student achievement testing on Tuesday.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson was tasked by the state Legislature last year to revamp the state's bank of standardized tests that measure student progress in English language arts and math and qualify high school students for graduation.

The proposed new testing comes as the state starts phasing in new national curriculum standards known as Common Core State Standards. The emphasis of the new testing will be on critical thinking and problem solving skills that will be aligned with Common Core's focus.

The proposal is the result of six months of meetings by a statewide taskforce that has held meetings around California gathering input from educators. 

The Associated Press

Self defense is taught at Sacramento’s Hiram Johnson High School by Mr. Latino. Mr Latino teaches his students Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a self defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. If Mr. Latino’s students were to ever find themselves in danger, trained students would be prepared. Students who are currently taking Mr. Latino’s class learn how to defend themselves against an attacker... Read More