Developed in response to the many recent national reports on school excellence in order to further improve education in Michigan, this document emphasizes equity as well as excellence. Section 1 outlines four key principles for making specific recommendations for educational improvement: improving learning, creating a learning environment, strengthening the teaching profession, and delivering educational services. In section II, recommendations to local school districts, the governor and legislature, and institutions of higher education are offered in a number of areas, from high school graduation requirements to professional development. The third section, on actions and directions projected for the State Board of Education, addresses many of the same issues, such as textbooks and instructional materials, computer technology, and accreditation. The next 2 sections provide, respectively, a summary of State Board of Education proposals concerning each of the four major principles for educational improvement, and an outline of 14 curriculum-related Michigan Department of Education activities in progress regarding national reports. Section VI describes previous actions by the State Board of Education regarding school improvement in 20 different areas, including middle school issues, basic skills, college entrance requirements, and career ladders for teachers/master teachers. The document concludes with a brief bibliography. (JBM)