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This article explores the origins of a core curriculum and the debates that have ensued over the years regarding what should and should not be included as essential subject matter to study. "Core curriculum" refers to a specific set of identified courses that students need to take to provide the foundation for success in college and in later life. The core curriculum provides essential knowledge, skills, and understandings that students need for successful application in a variety of life contexts. Discussion focuses on the pressing issue of debate regarding what should be included in the core curriculum and then expands to explore the range of perspectives regarding whether or not the core curriculum is demanding enough, as well as how schools can make the core curriculum accessible to all students regardless of learning ability, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, etc. The article highlights a recent study regarding the inadequacy of the current core curriculum with regard to student preparation for advanced study and further illuminates the complexities introduced into the debate by federal legislation such as the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.