This transcript of a Congressional hearing concerns improving and strengthening the quality of education in Boston and other cities. The testimony centers around the systemwide planning process that has established the Boston Plan for Excellence in the Public Schools and the incentive programs that have been implemented. A major issue is federal and state involvement in such plans and policies. Suggestions for this involvement are the following: (1) funding for nationwide replication of successful educational programs; (2) a student loan forgiveness program for college graduates who teach where teacher shortages are present; (3) the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act; (4) more research upon which programs and policies can be based; and (5) rewards for outstanding teachers and schools. Other witnesses endorsed a radical restructuring of the schools and changes in the role of the teacher that would make teaching a true profession. Parental involvement and choice are notions that are being discussed in many locales. This could make schools compete for students, thus forcing them to improve what they have to offer. (VM)