The topics of this speech concern educational equity, excellence, dropout, and reform issues for the purpose of securing adequate public school funding. The address pleads for broader public support to increase school funding; political support for the legislative changes necessary to ensure equity and excellence; and public participation in the decision making processes at the school level to increase community involvement and concern. Particular reforms are described to show positive changes that have already occurred in Minnesota. These reforms, already funded, include successful open enrollment, advanced placement, and public school partnerships with postsecondary institutions. Other reforms are before the state legislature. Known as the governor's "children's agenda," programs include expanding the state's early childhood family education program, expanding preschool health screening, increasing child care services inside and outside the schools, and investing $80 million for the purchase of student computers and other education technology. (JAM)