How do you define "rigor"?

Many organizations focused on improving America's high schools have called for an emphasis on the "three new R's" -- relevance, relationships, and rigor -- to engage students and promote their success in college and beyond. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has made major investments in transforming high schools here in Boston and around the country, challenging districts, schools, and communities to adopt the "three new R's" as a framework for changing the culture of schools.

The foundation recently convened a meeting of grantees to explore the question: What is rigor? We know that schools must develop creative new approaches to challenge students in every classroom with high academic standards and college-preparatory curriculum. But what does a "rigorous" classroom look like? Do parents, students, and educators all define "rigor" the same way? We want to hear from you. Click on "comments" below to post your perspectives on the defintion and importance of rigor.