New studies dispel the fear that high academic standards set up some students to fail or drop out. This research finds that raising academic standards has a positive impact for all students in the following ways: (1) students take more demanding courses, learn more, and score higher on tests; (2) nationwide, dropout rates are falling and high school completion rates are rising; (3) students in more rigorous programs are more likely to go to and graduate from college, especially students from minority and low-income groups; and (4)students in more rigorous programs earned significantly higher wages and were more productive, effects that increased over time. Raising standards, with consequences, typically results in the following changes: elimination of bottom-track, low-level courses; provision of extra support for struggling students; and new ways of extending learning time (reorganized school days and school years). Although students may earn a lower grade in a harder course, they will be better off in the long run, in the eyes of colleges and employers. (MN)