Four papers by four conference speakers deal with the theme that educational planning is urgent, and that it vitally needs time and resources. Specialist personnel may be required and without them it is doubtful if full benefit can be obtained either from the planning process or from the implementation of plans once developed. At the same time, the development of the policies of a school system should involve those in the forefront of leadership in the system. It cannot be left to the "backroom boys" nor can it be done for a school system by an outside body such as a university. These and other agencies have roles to play, but planning and policy development must be more than a bookish exercise. If school systems adopt a planning outlook involving as many personnel as possible they can develop "rolling reform" which will enable schools to become more vital institutions in meeting the challenges of today and tomorrow. Appendixes include a conference agenda and a directory of conference personnel. (Author/LLR)