Online ISSN: 2325-7466
2006
Triannual
National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
United States

Articles

A Framework for Integrating the Common Core Standards to a Functional Skills Curriculum in High School

  • Sudha V. Krishnan (Author) Department of Special Education, San Jose State University image/svg+xml
DOI
https://doi.org/10.64546/jaasep.617
Abstract
A holistic framework that integrates Common Core State Standards (CCSS) with functional skills instruction for high school students with extensive support needs (ESN) is urgently needed for high schools to comply with recent legislation like the California Assembly Bill 181 (2022), that established an alternate diploma pathway that is aligned with alternate academic standards. This paper argues against the false dichotomy between academic and functional curricula and, instead proposes a framework that integrates CCSS into functional activities by isolating specific skills (e.g., literacy, mathematics, collaboration, or technology use) and aligns them with evidence-based practices such as task analysis, video modeling, systematic instruction, prompting, and peer-mediated interventions. Instructional transparency is encouraged through visible classroom standards and academic subject labeling, supporting shared understanding among educators, families, and administrators. Further, the paper posits that functional skills are naturally an authentic context for standards-based instruction, allowing educators to maintain academic rigor while promoting skills needed for post-school readiness. This integrated framework offers a practical approach to curriculum design and instructional planning for students with extensive support needs to prepare students for meaningful postsecondary education, employment, and community life.
Keywords
extensive support needs, functional skills curriculum, Common Core State Standards, alternate diploma pathway, secondary special education
References

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There are 16 references in total.
How to Cite
Krishnan, S. V. (2026). A Framework for Integrating the Common Core Standards to a Functional Skills Curriculum in High School. Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, 21(1), 49-58. https://doi.org/10.64546/jaasep.617
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  • Article Type Articles
  • Submitted December 14, 2025
  • Published February 11, 2026
  • Issue Spring/Summer 2026
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