Recommendations for immediate and long-range changes in California intermediate and secondary schools are presented. These recommendations chart ways to make schools more effective, more enjoyable, and more conducive to a continued interest in learning. Specifically, some of the recommendations call for such reforms as (1) recognizing and accepting each learner as the principal client of the school; (2) relying on demonstrated proficiency in learning activities, instead of depending on "seat time," as the basis for awarding credit to learners; (3) offering a system of learning options in terms of time, place, programs, and formats to give learners a wide choice of ways to achieve their learning goals; (4) allowing credit and noncredit "furloughs" that allow learners to leave and reenter the school system; (5) emphasizing mastery of essential skills by all learners, particularly the skills of reading, writing, and computation; (6) instructional emphasis on social concepts that reflect present and future needs and concerns; (7) providing extensive opportunities for career exploration, awareness, and preparation; (8) developing personal values, responsibilities, and decision-making skills; (9) eliminating average daily attendance as the basis for state funding; and (10) involving learners, parents, staff, and others in the decision-making process at the local and school system level, including involvement in the selection and review of staff. (Author/DE)