Policy suggestions for achieving the equitable and effective funding of Maryland public schools are offered in this document. The ideas presented draw upon papers presented and discussions held at a statewide conference entitled "Setting the Agenda for Funding Equity." Purposes of the conference were to develop the policy elements of a new formula for funding Maryland public education, strategies to gain the support of the public and policymakers, and a statewide network. The first section identifies the principal issues, such as disparities in per pupil expenditures among school districts, accountability, and state aid. The second section lists several policy considerations, and the third section offers criteria for judging the effectiveness of funding proposals. The fourth section lists 11 contributors who submitted formal proposals and provides information on how to access texts of their papers and workshop recommendations. The fifth section outlines the model funding formula, a new Action Plan for Educational Excellence (APEX) that replaces the 1978 APEX "foundation" funding program. The new formula is based on the assumption that funding linked to performance and innovation leads to educational improvement. (LMI)