In the last issue of "American Educator," several scholars argued in favor of a common core curriculum. By common core, they meant that the curriculum should be broadly adopted (enabling improvements in instructional materials, student tests, and teacher training), but also limited (preserving instructional time for districts, schools, and teachers to address local priorities). Among the many benefits they discussed, the most compelling was the potential for a common core curriculum to increase educational equity. Inequity comes in many forms, but one of the most basic is an unequal opportunity to learn important content, concepts, and skills. Recognizing that a common core curriculum is an essential means of increasing equity--and excellence--in America's schools, the Albert Shanker Institute has developed the statement presented in this article calling for educators, curriculum specialists, cognitive scientists, content experts, and others to create such a curriculum. (Contains 2 footnotes and 6 endnotes.)