Progress made by southern states in meeting the need for quality in education is described, and priorities for further actions are identified. In 1981 the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) offered 25 recommendations to move the South beyond minimum levels toward quality education. Major progress was made with regard to the following: raising high school academic standards and graduation requirements, raising college admissions standards, tightening teacher selection standards, and achieving college-high school cooperation toward mutual objectives. One priority for the future--improving the quality of teachers beyond minimum standards--may be achieved through: rewards for excellence, teacher education programs, teacher certification, reciprocity agreements, and continuing education of teachers. Additional priorities that need to be addressed are: selecting principals who are leaders, strengthening mathematics and science in the schools, and preparing youth for work. Units of high school work recommended or required for college admission in seven states are identified for: Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Information is included on policies on teacher testing and assessment in the 14 SREB states, and 20 additional recommendations are offered. (SW)