An article in the Washington Post describes a new effort, by 46 states and D.C., to create a framework of nationwide education standards.  These standards would govern the content, quality, and quantity of material covered in classrooms of all ages and stages.  The driving idea behind this effort is to make American students more gloabally competitive.  The standards will ameliorate the gaps that currently exist in individualized state standards. I think having national standards are a great idea.  In fact, I am surprised it has taken us this long to develop them.  It makes perfect sense to expect that a third grader in California would be required to learn the same information as a third grader in Kentucky.  It is true that when students, or adults for that matter, have clear understanding of what is expected of them they are more likely to succeed.  Not only will these standards help the students but also the teachers and administrators as well.  So what is the downside?  Some would argue that creating national standards puts too much power in the hands of Washington politicians, but these standards are being created by and agreed upon by the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers.  Others may fear, and rightly so, that national standards may eventually lead to national directives on how to disseminate these standards.  In other words, some teachers may fear losing autonomy in the classroom and the ability to make choices to suit the needs of a specific group of students.  Teaching may be better associated with the creative arts.  It requires innovation and invention, creativity and craft, patience and perseverance.  It is truly an art.  I hope that national standards do not lead to the extinction of this art.