Preparing all students for success requires a renewed emphasis on supporting high-quality teaching, on using data to inform decision-making, and on creating a culture of high expectations. To support the shift toward college and career readiness, more than 45 states and the District of Columbia have adopted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Over the next two years, principals will play an important role in preparing their schools for the transition to next-generation assessments. A successful transition will require planning for technology readiness, real-world field testing, and training and professional development. When teachers understand and are engaged in the implementation of the CCSS and the new assessments, they will be better able to communicate those changes to parents and the community. As trusted education leaders, principals are in a unique position to advance implementation of the CCSS and next-generation assessments. The time for action is now. This is an opportunity to move forward to ensure that all students are ready for the demands of the 21st century.