Their members are often elected. But some Americans say the lack of national standards is wrong in a competitive global economy.

VOA: special.2010.07.22

But critics of national standards say the idea goes against one of America's oldest traditions -- local control of education.

VOA: special.2011.06.09

But the comparison also found that existing English standards are "clearly stronger" in California, Indiana and the District of Columbia.

VOA: special.2010.07.22

States that approve the new standards have a right to add up to fifteen percent of their own.

VOA: special.2010.07.22

In California, the State Board of Education plans to vote on August second to accept or reject a new set of standards.

VOA: special.2010.07.22

It says the standards are clearer and stronger than those used in three-fourths of the states.

VOA: special.2010.07.22

Ms.Blythe says national standards could improve the results of American students on international science tests.

VOA: special.2011.06.16

But,while versions of the new language are being used, standards have not been agreed upon.

VOA: special.2010.06.22

"Let's say you have an undergraduate law degree but you really want to be able to bring international human rights standards to bear on a particular conflict in your part of the world.

VOA: special.2009.09.24

(Speaking) Waxler says the agency should have provided better oversight and employed tougher standards for dealing with adverse effects of LASIK.

VOA: standard.2010.03.03

Guinea Bissau has Africa's second lowest rating on the U.N.'s Human Development Index measuring life expectancy,education, and standards of living.

VOA: standard.2009.04.24

Tapping into the his vast collection of jazz melodies and pop standards on "Johnny Mercer: The Dream's On Me."

VOA: standard.2010.04.12

It's comprised mostly of original tunes, but also includes the jazz standards "My Shining Hour" and "I Can't Get Started."

VOA: standard.2010.06.09

US Congressman Robert Wexler, a self-described friend of Turkey, attacked the Turkish prime minister of double standards.

VOA: standard.2009.10.27

He stood before a glass and wood case holding a copy of the United States Constitution, and talked about morality, rights and ethical standards.

VOA: standard.2009.05.21

Also included is the title track from Queen Latifah's album of jazz standards "Travelin' Light."

VOA: standard.2010.04.12

About 3,000 foreign election observers declared that, despite a few irregularities, the first round of Ukraine's presidential election on January 17 met international standards for honesty.

VOA: standard.2010.02.01