An executive summary of the results of a national study of the state education agencies' (SEAs) use of funds provided by the 1974 amendments to Title VII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act are presented. The study was undertaken to (1) describe and analyze SEA policies and activities regarding bilingual education, (2) describe and analyze the SEA-level management structure for the coordination of technical assistance, and (3) provide information on technical management and assistance activities the Department of Education may use to help SEA grantees assist local schools in building their capacity to provide bilingual education services to language minority students. The study involved a literature review, analysis of Title VII grant applications submitted by SEAs, and case studies of the implementation of Title VII grants in nine states. The results presented include an examination of the allocation and distribution of grant funds, SEA use of grant funds, issues appearing to merit legislative or regulatory attention, including Title VII administrative procedures, service delivery, oversight responsibilities, federal guidance for SEAs, grant versus contract funding of support centers, and differential fiscal support. (MSE)