Standards have become a part of the educational landscape. In this chapter, we survey the origins of national standards; reflect on their power, in particular those in science education; and examine the role professional development must play if standards are to realize their potential to truly transform education. The link between standards and professional development is essential: Knowing where one needs to go is only the first step. Building the capacity for continuous learning for all students--a capacity needed to take us well into the 21st century--must follow. This free selection also includes a Foreword, Preface, an About the Editors page, the Table of Contents, and an Introduction section.