This document is an English-language abstract (approximately 1,500 words) of a law passed by the Finnish Parliament forming the administrative and organizational basis of school reform. It states that as of 1 August 1970, Finland's school system will be developed in accordance with the main principles of comprehensive education. The core of the system is the municipal school system that includes elementary school, pre-school, kindergarten, secondary, and vocational. Other schools not maintained by a community can replace a municipal school. Communities are responsible for establishing elementary education at the age of 7, compulsory until the age of 16. The organization of the grade levels, required subjects, religious instruction, elective subjects, and counseling are all spelled out in the law. School administration is the joint responsibility of the Ministry of Education and the National Board of Schools. Each community is required to establish its own committee to plan local school affairs. The community can take over private schools through mutual agreements. The State defrays between 5% and 95% of building and operating expenses, depending on the economic status of the community. (Author/GDB)