Federal legislation to improve education passed in 1994 is reviewed and two major bills are discussed in greater detail. Emphasis is on the legislation's provisions for improvement of educational standards and access to improved education for all students, especially the disadvantaged. An introductory section highlights the provisions of three pieces of legislation: Goals 2000: Educate American Act; the School-to-Work Opportunities Act; and the Improving America's Schools Act (IASA), especially five of its 14 titles that affect the education of linguistically and culturally diverse students. These elements of Goals 2000 are explained: the call for systemic school reform; federal funds to support reform; the objective of high standards for all students; excellence principles; and new ways of assessing student achievement. Discussion of IASA focuses on the provisions of Title I (helping disadvantaged children meet high standards), Title II (professional development), Title VII (bilingual education, language enhancement, and language acquisition programs), and Title XIII (technical support and assistance to improve education). Contains 10 references. (MSE)