The Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks learning standards were developed as models for the development of local district curriculum.  They are a resource for helping Massachusetts’ public schools design, implement, and assess their core content area curricula.  Content learning standards represent rigorous expectations for student performance and describe the knowledge and abilities needed to be successful in today’s society.  To help students achieve at high levels, teachers-in collaboration with families and community partners-are encouraged to use these standards to evaluate and implement the best and most powerful practices.  These standards provide ample room for the innovation, creativity, and reflection essential to teaching and learning.