Maryland is one of the states which recently developed new requirements for high school graduation. A preliminary evaluation of these new state standards has raised a number of issues about graduation standards and their assessment. The Maryland State Department of Education examined statewide policies and guidelines for high schools between 1982 and 1985. There were indications that curriculum contents and graduation requirements were inconsistent around the state. The new guidelines called for increased credits in mathematics, fine arts, and practical arts, and for instruction in computer use, study skills, and critical thinking. Four minimum competency tests in reading, mathematics, writing, and citizenship were also required. Some general concerns about raising graduation standards involve increasing state power, changes in curriculum and staffing, and increasing inequities for disadvantaged or high risk students. Initial evaluation of Maryland's program, conducted by experienced facilitators, indicated that a longer period of time was needed for phasing in the requirements for ninth grade students and for Certificate of Merit applicants. Most schools also reported difficulty in defining the fine and practical arts requirements. (GDC)