The California Education Code requires school boards to "establish standards of expected pupil achievement at each grade level in each area of study" and to consider student progress when evaluating teachers. The guidelines in this document have been prepared to help superintendents, principals, and teachers take steps to meet these requirements by (1) choosing curriculum objectives that will define appropriate standards; (2) determining the level of student achievement required to meet the standards; (3) establishing assessment procedures for measuring student progress; (4) aligning the instructional program with the curriculum objectives; and (5) developing procedures for providing support and enrichment activities to enhance student achievement. The document first examines the relationships among goals, standards, objectives, and the curriculum, and reviews the district's role in establishing the curriculum. The second section of the guide discusses the characteristics of curriculum objectives, and the third section examines performance standards. The fourth section of the guide reviews measurement procedures, including the use of custom-made tests. The fifth section relates the standards to the instructional program and the sixth reviews policies and procedures associated with using standards. Appendixes provide sample forms, checklists, and worksheets designed to help districts implement the concepts covered. (PGD)