Current education reform initiatives give little support to family and consumer sciences (FCS) programs. However, there is evidence suggesting a critical need for such preventive education that is focused on nurturing human development. Despite rhetoric of public officials concerning "prevention models" of wellness, society continues to function predominantly in a crisis intervention mode, waiting until the need for extensive services arises before publicly intervening. Although issues of the human condition are highly complex, interrelated, and not easily remedied, public education has both the potential and responsibility to serve a primary role in prevention, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. (Contains 1 table, and 1 figure.)