Issues in the debate over national education standards for content and performance are examined in this journal issue. Interviews with three individuals in different areas of education were held, and each is described in narrative style by Anne Turnbaugh Lockwood. The first is with Linda Darling-Hammond, director of the National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools and Training. She points to other initiatives for improving student achievement, such as equalized school financing and the provision of resources for teacher recruitment and education. In the second interview, Deborah Meier, the principal and co-founder of the Central Park Elementary Schools in New York City, expresses opposition to the standardization of standards. She argues for the "habits of mind" as developed in her schools, and draws from her own years in public education to illustrate her points. The third interview is with William Fernekes, a teacher and department chair at a Flemington, New Jersey, high school, who is currently involved in writing standards for the social studies. He distinguishes his viewpoint on national standards from that of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) and identifies future implementation problems and necessary resources. Finally, a commentary by retiring National Center for Effective Schools (NCES) director, Richard A Rossmiller points to the importance of effective money management and equity for effective schools. (Contains 13 references.) (LMI)