The document discusses student learning standards and their role in education. It defines standards as being similar to traditional educational objectives and outcomes, with an emphasis on high expectations. There are different types of standards, including content, performance, lifelong learning, and opportunity to learn standards. Standards can provide a blueprint to ensure all students learn necessary knowledge and skills. However, attempting to teach all existing standards would require students to spend five more years in school. The document examines reasons for standards and how they can be used, such as synthesizing goals and targeting student achievement.