As the teacher representative on the Mississippi Board of Education, the author often has the opportunity to hear about many educational programs and initiatives during their early stages of development. One particular initiative presented to the state board in 2010 was the Common Core State Standards. After reading and studying the standards, the author quickly realized that significant changes in education would be coming soon. In the two years that have passed since the Common Core inauguration, she has gained a deeper understanding of just how much those changes will affect her, her students, and her own children. In her role as a board member, the word "state" is significant because for the first time in the history of America's education system, a large majority of states are collaborating for the common good of the students. By sharing common standards, teachers from all over the country will be able to hold all students to the same high level of academic achievement. The author trusts that through the standards, teachers will have the opportunity to improve, grow, and flourish in all areas of instruction. She is confident that the standards will help provide America's students with a solid and meaningful education that will lead them to success wherever their futures direct them.