This document outlines the 1992 proposals of the Education Commission of the States (ECS) to gain public commitment and to assist state leaders in translating educational vision into reality. The first part examines the need for systemic educational reform, arguing that the key to systems change is a renewed democratic debate about public policy. The emerging consensus on educational objectives is described. The second part discusses the role of the ECS as a vehicle for systems change and outlines ECS vehicles for political and policy change and action priorities. Action will be organized around three major strategies: promoting systems change, transforming teaching and learning, and embracing diversity. The concluding section emphasizes that the call for renewed public dialogue involves reconnecting the public with its institutions and closing the communication gap between policy makers and the public. Active citizen participation, which creates commitment, is necessary for transforming American education. (LMI)