"What do you recommend we do about it?"

This was the question my vice-principal asked me as I explained how the math textbook we are currently using doesn't align to the Common Core. Great question! Trashing the textbook is not an option, so I pondered where to start that would give teachers a entry point into the changes needed. Starting with the end goals for student learning seems to be a starting point for discussions. These are the questions and ideas that I'd love to discuss with the teachers at my grade level.

•  What do we need our students to understand and be able to do by the end of the year?
• Do the assessments that we are currently using match what students need to understand and be able to do based on the CCSSM? 
• If the assessments do not match what students should learn and be able to do, then this is a good starting point. 
• Once we decide what students need to understand and be able to do, we can create assessments and then lessons to support our final goals. Some of the lessons in the textbook may support the learning. Others might not. Lessons that do  not support what students should know and be able to do should not be used. 
• Lessons should support all learners as they develop mathematical skills and understanding. They should include manipulatives and many opportunities for students to demonstrate and explain their thinking.
• How will we measure what students already know and understand about the CCSSM in the beginning of the year?
• How will we measure if students have mastered the standards at the end of the year?

I'd also love to talk about how children learn math. But I'll save that for another day.