Curriculum reform: Classroom teachers' perceptions on implementation of new curriculum standards

This study investigated teachers' perceptions on the implementation of new curriculum standards. Results of the study were intended to provide data to school district administrators that could be used in the development and implementation of a curriculum reform process. Classroom teachers in a large central Florida school district completed the survey instrument. Elementary, middle and high school teachers were surveyed. The survey instrument's five constructs were: (1) Individual accountability for implementation; (2) Resources provided to implementers; (3) Teacher expertise; (4) Acceptance of standards; (5) Customization. The research questions focused on determining the difference in perspectives due to years of teaching experience and level of teaching, elementary, middle or high. The results showed no significance difference in the perspectives of teachers based on years of teaching experience and none in the interaction between years of teaching experience and level of teaching. The results showed significant difference based on level of teaching. However, there was agreement among the teachers in regard to their perspectives and the five survey constructs. The literature on curriculum reform since the 1980s, specifically in the area of curriculum standards, framed the study. The literature review focused on existing research on issues within the five constructs and the research questions.;Recommendations for practice outlined operational parameters for school district administrators responsible for curriculum reform. The researcher emphasized the necessity for educational leaders to listen to and respond to the needs of teachers.