This paper focuses on standards-based teacher licensure in Alaska. Section 1, "Introduction," examines the history of schooling in the United States, noting different periods of reform. Section 2, "School Reform Since 'A Nation at Risk,'" discusses how that report shifted the focus for reform. Section 3, "Education Standards," focuses on standards-setting in core subjects and standards-setting in the states. Section 4, "Assessment and Accountability," looks at how new student assessments were expected to be aligned with states' standards. Section 5, "Teaching," discusses teacher standards and assessments and presents implications for preparation, licensure, and professional development of teachers. Section 6, "Recommendations," stresses the importance of: knowing appropriate content and pedagogy; knowing public expectations for students' learning (state standards) and being sure that assessments capture what is important; and knowing the context of the work. (Contains approximately 1,000 references.) (SM)