Nearly every state has adopted or is in the process of adopting content and performance standards for education. This guide summarizes some of the lessons learned in developing standards. It also provides tips and strategies from early leaders in standards development to help educators and policymakers who are working on new forms of assessment. The lessons that were learned about involving the public in enacting standards also apply to new assessments. They are: (1) public involvement and policy development and implementation are inseparable; (2) listen first, talk later; (3) teacher involvement is essential; (4) show how new approaches enhance rather than replace old methods; (5) expect criticism and respond without becoming preoccupied; (6) understand that results take time; (7) demystify reforms; (8) communicate the big picture to the public; (9) be willing to adjust based on public and educator needs and concerns; and (10) build a strategic communications plan. Concerns about new assessments are likely to involve new formats and reporting, the technical accuracy of the assessment, and low scores as the tests are initiated. Other probable concerns are the consequences of assessment, teachers' roles, and the costs of new assessments. Thirteen resource organizations are listed for further help. (SLD)