The elements of a comprehensive statewide plan for educational improvement in North Dakota are viewed in condensed form in this document. The plan prescribes an expanded leadership role for the State Department of Education and requires a vital new commitment of higher education to the problems of public education. Educational objectives of the plan are presented, the main objective being to upgrade the level of preparation of North Dakota's teachers so that the majority of teachers hold degrees. Discussion in this document, one of 6 dealing with the statewide plan, includes: background of the educational personnel problem, elements of a plan of action, a recommended major pilot program, teacher preparation programs, and financial support for the pilot preparation program. Related documents are RC 000 180, RC 004 196, RC 004 197, RC 004 198, and RC 004 199. Particular attention should be given to the companion document (RC 004 199), which contains a description of the personnel situation rather than initiating proposals for improving the situation (as does the present document). (SW)