Developed to provide assistance and support to local schools that want to improve their secondary mathematics programs, this guide provides an updated view of what North Dakota educators feel is necessary in a secondary mathematics curriculum. An overview of perceived statewide mathematics objectives and a review of national perspectives on mathematics education are presented. A section explaining the role of the classroom teacher in dealing with special needs students is also included. The guide identifies seven core courses and describes each with a course outline, course objectives, and examples or comments on the topics. Courses reviewed include: (1) algebra; (2) geometry; (3) algebra II; (4) trigonometry; (5) analytic geometry; (6) probability and statistics; and (7) mathematical applications. Appendices consist of sections addressing the use of calculators, computers and textbook evaluation in mathematics education. Also included are a position paper on basic skills, an agenda for minimum skills for college algebra, and a bibliography. (ML)