Superintendents talked about effective ways that school systems could implement Common Core State standards, adopted by 45 states and the District of Columbia, that allow states to accurately compare standardized test scores across the country and internationally. They also discussed the need and importance of training and providing support for teachers in the initiative. David Coleman challenged the initiative on the grounds that the program was a costly “mediocre” program that would not prepare students for college. Panelists answered questions from the audience about the cost to states of the program, room the possibility for extended programs such as summer school, and competency-based instruction.