This document is an English-language abstract (approximately 1,500 words) of a desclaration drawn up by the participants of the Fourth Mexican National Congress of Normal Education. The declaration points out the importance of teacher training in the educational system, the fundamental problems presently facing this level of studies and the significance of reform. The main objective of teacher education is to give elementary school teachers the required preparation to teach. The curriculum should cover both teaching techniques and subjects on general culture; professional ethics and social training are also important. Normal (teacher training) schools should function independently of secondary schools to affirm their professional character. The assigned semester courses should be related in an effective manner, balancing semesters and methodically planning teaching activities. The teacher training course should be extended from three to four years, and a BA should be a prerequisite for becoming a teacher. Class sessions should be kept to one hundred minutes. It is recommended that artistic programs stimulate creativity. Educational and vocational guidance, psychological, social, and medical work are considered specialized services. Teacher selection should be objective, and they should be unionized. (Author/GDB)