Some of the more generally accepted forecasts of future developments in American society are set down in this paper as the foundation for a discussion of the educational objectives that will prove most important during years to come. The document identifies several trends: in world social attitudes, in population growth and shifts, and in the environment and the availability of material resources. Environmental changes specifically affecting education and concepts of educational adequacy in the areas of governance, learner needs, the relationship between the home and the school, lifelong learning, and technological developments are particularly emphasized. The author then lists 10 high priority program needs for adequate future schools, clarifies the federal role in meeting those needs, and presents guidelines for financing them adequately. The goals include providing optional preschool instruction and 13 years of mandatory general education for all children; offering programs to develop citizenship skills, relevant vocational education, ecological awareness, and lifelong learning behaviors; and expanding continuing education, grassroots governance systems, home-school relationships, and school improvement through the utilization of new technological developments. (Author/PGD)