Wisconsin has long been a model for other states in terms of education quality. However, the world is rapidly becoming a more complex place. As a result, we must expect greater academic achievement from our children today if they are to be adequately prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

The only way to ensure that Wisconsin's students have the skills and abilities to be successful in this rapidly changing technological world is to set clear, high academic standards that describe precisely what today's students must learn and be able to do in order to be successful in their adult lives. This is why we focused our efforts over the past two years creating model academic standards in all subject areas. While Wisconsin's Model Academic Standards do demand more of our students, we are confident that our students are equal to the task.

These model academic standards represent the work of a task force made up of people from diverse backgrounds. Educators, parents, and business people produced the academic content and performance standards in this document. Drafts were subjected to public engagement in which many additional people offered input.

It must be stressed that these standards are not intended to limit local districts. Instead they are a model to be met or exceeded. Our hope is that the standards will shape teaching and learning in Wisconsin's more than 2000 school buildings. The standards will define the criteria by which one can judge the quality of education programs. While many schools already have clearly defined high academic standards, many others may wish to review and perhaps change their learning goals and teaching methods.

Standards logically provide the foundation for testing; and, testing results are a critical barometer of both student and teacher success. Local tests that are well-aligned to the standards are a clear indicator of students' preparation for future education, civic responsibility, and meaningful employment.

In closing, I want to commend the members of the task force who gave freely of their time to produce the standards in this document. Finally, the citizens of Wisconsin must be thanked for devoting their time and effort to the development of the final draft of Wisconsin's Model Academic Standards.

John T. Benson
State Superintendent