Central to this collection of nine papers is the unifying theme of excellence and quality in the American educational system with emphasis on the role of educational technology. Although each paper addresses a different audience, the content of each is similar with respect to the U.S. Department of Education's role in providing funds for such projects as: (1) a research conference on computers in education; (2) an occupational education program in high technology for secondary youth; (3) computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs for basic skills instruction and teaching secondary math in grades 9 through 12; (4) utilizing data processing systems in developing instructional and management programs; (5) Project QUILL, which uses microcomputer software to teach writing in grades 3 through 6; (6) a project using computer-assisted instruction to teach math and reading in the elementary grades and special education; (7) using technology in vocational training; (8) teacher training in computer literacy; (9) the Network Lighthouse project, which designates model programs in schools which use technology to achieve quality math/reading programs; and (10) Project BEST which uses telecommunications to share information among and between the states. Also discussed are the decline of education in the past two decades; criteria and means by which the government selects outstanding public schools at the secondary level; the role of the National Diffusion Network in disseminating model educational programs to local schools; and the need for other nations to share information and ideas in the field of education. (DJR)