The document presents a new set of standards for family and consumer sciences (FACS) education. Section 1 is a three-chapter overview. Chapter 1 addresses the rationale for change and the FACS vision and mission. Chapter 2 describes the approach to develop the national standards, FACS format, and components of the standards. Chapter 3 provides background information on the process for FACS national standards, explains the structure of the process questions, and presents the reasoning for action standard. Chapter 4 presents the 16 areas of study, along with their comprehensive standards, content standards, competencies, academic proficiencies, and process questions; career, community, and family connections; consumer and family resources; consumer services; early childhood, education, and services; facilities management and maintenance; family; family and community services; food production and services; food science, dietetics, and nutrition; hospitality, tourism, and recreation; housing, interiors, and furnishings; human development; interpersonal relationships; nutrition and wellness; parenting; and textiles and apparel. Chapter 5 discusses aspects of implementation strategies and potential leadership activities to guide state development of standards and related programs. Appendixes contain 118 references grouped by contributing state; 110 process references and additional resources; and a participant list. (YLB)