The power of Colorado's education improvement efforts lies in the integration and implementation of four key priorities: relevant and rigorous standards, aligned and meaningful assessments, excellent teachers and school leaders, and high-performing schools and districts all aimed at helping students succeed in an increasingly competitive workforce.

Standards-based education in Colorado begins with clear expectations that outline what students should know and be able to do at each grade level and content area. These expectations are outlined in the Colorado Academic Standards.

"The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) contracted WestEd to conduct a review of Colorado's K-12 Model Content Standards (MCS). The findings and recommendations from this review are intended to inform decision-making by the CDE during its standards revision process."

This document establishes minimum standards for end user information technology (IT) needs, including, but not limited to, IT hardware, software, policies, procedures, end user training and support.