The potential exists in schools nationwide to create a high quality system of education. But schools are not operating as a coherent system. While most educators and citizens are ready to act and to improve education, decisionmakers do not realize the need for a new paradigm in education. Many successful schools serve as examples of the benefits of total quality management (TQM) techniques. Aims must be established to chart a direction. A philosophy of quality management must be adopted to build a following of supporters. A vision of every school, district, and state as part of a larger learning community must be established. A strategy for change is needed to guide and learn as the process proceeds. Resources must be found to support and facilitate change. Educators must be given the skills to use TQM methods in the classroom. A system of rewards for teachers and students should be established. The effort for change should begin as soon as possible and should be organized. Education stakeholders nationwide can begin real change and improvement in education using TQM methods. Appendices include a total quality learning competency matrix and a teachers' annotated reading list. (JPT)