This paper discusses the impact of societal change on the educational system. Because of technological and economic developments, it is imperative that the educational system accommodate and utilize change to benefit all sectors of the population. Early childhood education programs have been conceived as agents of change, particularly for disadvantaged groups. A major problem now facing the field is a shortage of trained personnel, because increasing numbers of children are enrolled in preschool programs each year. Most preschool staff members have little experience or training in early childhood education, and present training programs are inadequate, particularly for inner city personnel. Resources available for developing training programs are based on inappropriate criteria. To meet the continued growth in preschool programs, it is proposed that (1) inservice training programs be developed, (2) a minimum of six regional teacher-demonstration centers be created, (3) preservice training be offered by community colleges, (4) national certification standards be established, with professional organizations acting as the legal regulatory agencies of the local and state levels, and (5) a National Institute on Early Childhood be established to integrate and innovate practices in early childhood education. (DR)