The Ontario College of Teachers licenses, governs, and regulates teaching practice. Its mandate includes providing leadership in developing standards of practice. This paper examines the mandate of the Standards of Practice and Education Committee and work of the staff in the Standards of Practice and Education Unit. After describing development of the Standards, the paper details key elements in commitment to students and lifelong learning: demonstration of care and commitment, support for student learning, equitable and respectful treatment, growing as individuals and contributing members of society, and assistance in becoming lifelong learners. Key elements of professional knowledge are noted: knowledge of the student, the curriculum, teaching practice, and the learning environment. Key elements of teaching practice include: the student, curriculum, teaching and the changing context of learning environments, student assessment and evaluation, and reflection. Key elements of leadership and community are: responsibility and service, creating learning communities, and sustaining learning through innovation and change. Key elements of ongoing professional learning are: teacher and student learning, professional growth, and improving practice. The paper discusses ethical standards, implementation (professional learning framework), ongoing professional learning, accreditation of preservice programs, standards of practice in investigations and hearings, and current validation strategies. (Contains 53 references.) (SM)