This report summarizes findings from a study of Americans' attitudes toward teaching, educational opportunity, and school reform, examining: what Americans feel must be done to ensure that all schools become what they should be, teachers' roles in fulfilling the quest for higher student achievement, and how well current and proposed reform efforts measure up to the public's expectations for its schools. Surveys of 2,525 adults nationwide indicate that most Americans believe that once the issue of school safety is addressed, providing a qualified teacher in every classroom is the most important way to improve education and lift student achievement. They feel that doing what it takes to put a fully qualified teacher in every classroom is more important than offering educational vouchers or having for-profit companies run public schools. Respondents agree that most students are capable of learning, and demanding that all students meet the same academic standards is important. They believe that negative student behaviors are the main problem in public schools. They strongly favor more time for teacher development and planning. Respondents perceive that teachers are not well paid, but they consider teaching the profession that most benefits society. The teacher survey is appended. (SM)