The document discusses the importance of vertical and horizontal alignment in education to prepare students for success beyond their current grade level. Vertical alignment refers to developing standards, assessments, and curricula that build upon each other between grade levels. Horizontal alignment creates connections between standards, assessments, and curricula across different subject areas. The document provides examples of how a health promotion course could achieve both vertical and horizontal alignment through statewide articulation with universities, dual credit opportunities, integrating information technology, writing assignments, and practical skills assessments.