The New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards are defined as the knowledge, skills and understanding that individuals can and do habitually demonstrate over time because of instruction and learning experiences. These mathematics standards, collectively, are focused and cohesive—designed to support student access to the knowledge and understanding of the mathematical concepts that are necessary to function in a world very dependent upon the application of mathematics, while providing educators with the opportunity to devise innovative programs to support this endeavor. As with any set of standards, they need to be rigorous; they need to demand a balance of conceptual understanding, procedural fluency and application and represent a significant level of achievement in mathematics that will enable students to successfully transition to post-secondary education and the workforce.