This report describes New York State Regents' proposals to increase teacher compensation, improve the conditions for teaching, and to advance recruitment, preparation and retention of a quality teaching force in the state. Included in the report are recommendations on: (1) the professional status of teachers; (2) teacher salaries; (3) teaching load and class size; (4) teacher evaluation; (5) professional discipline; (6) teacher education, admission standards, program quality, field experiences; (7) teacher certification; (8) professional development; and (9) the supply and recruitment of teachers. The report summarizes questionnaire findings, and comments concerning strengthening teaching in the state, based on 10 Regional Conferences and 20 field visits to schools and teacher preparation programs. Regents' proposals and directions for further action to strengthen teaching are also summarized. Several tables are provided. The appendixes include a list of the conference sites; suggestions of conference participants; and the questionnaire used statewide to gather teachers' input. (JD)