This booklet summarizes a longer report on implementing the Mississippi Education Reform Act of 1982, a comprehensive strategy for the improvement of public education in the State. The document explains significant laws and programs established to address problems in four areas: (1) student achievement; (2) preparation and professional growth of school teachers, administrators, and other professionals; (3) local school management; and (4) school governance, leadership, and finance. It describes such newly established policies and programs as a statewide kindergarten requirement, the Mississippi Compulsory Attendance Law, a reform of the process and standards for teacher certification, and a performance-based school accreditation system. It also discusses two reforms at the level of State government: the making of the State School Board into an appointed body, and clarification of the State's educational policy (which is here outlined). The booklet concludes with a brief discussion on financing the Reform Act, a call for concerted, informed leadership, and graphic representations of some of the material presented earlier. (KH)