To raise the achievement of every student, Maryland designed "Achievement Matters Most," a plan for public schools that sets goals in the areas of achievement, teaching, testing, safety, and family involvement in schools. Achievement Matters Most supports Maryland schools' efforts to meet the goals of the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. Five goals for Achievement Matters Most are cited: (1) Achievement will improve for each student; (2) Curriculum, instruction, and testing will be better aligned and understandable; (3) All educators will have the skills to improve student achievement; (4) All schools will be safe, drug-free, and conducive to learning; and (5) Parents and legal guardians will be involved in education. This guide for parents discusses the following topic areas: (1) Achievement Matters Most; (2) High Expectations; (3) Curriculum; (4) Measuring Progress [Maryland School Assessment and Maryland High School Assessments]; (5) Maryland High School Diploma; (6) Testing Students with Special Needs and/or Limited English Proficiency; (7) Accountability; (8) Family Involvement; (9) Encouraging Achievement; and (10) For More Information, which includes resources with contact information. [For previous edition of this document, see ED484146.]