New York State Next Generation Standards Early Learning IntroductionThe task of revising the Early Learning Standards provided an opportunity to articulate a shared understanding of what young children can achieve with our support. Across New York State, educators, community members, researchers, and policymakers all advocated for what would be best for all children – developmentally appropriate expectations within a context that embraces children’s multiple identities and differing abilities. Standards represent a belief that equitable outcomes among diverse populations are possible when we focus our instruction and programming on who children are and what they need. Standards are only ideals, however, without the investment and dedication of the educators and parents, family members, and other adults in children’s lives. It is their work and protective care that empowers children to reach their fullest potential and makes real the Standards’ potential to equalize academic achievement for New York’s young children.