"It is the New York State Education Department's responsibility to set student learning expectations (standards) for what all students should know and be able to do as a result of skilled instruction. It is the responsibility of each local school district to develop curricula based on these NYS Learning Standards, select textbooks and instructional materials, develop pacing charts for learning (scope and sequence), and provide professional development for staff to ensure that all students have access to instruction leading to attainment of these learning standards." -- information from the NYSED.gov website.