The results of a study conducted by the Education Committee of the Virginia State Chamber of Commerce are presented in this report. The report discusses (1) a survey of attitudes toward public education, covering problems, ratings of teacher and student performance, and suggestions for improvement; (2) the quality and causes of discipline in Virginia and a description of exemplary programs; (3) conclusions concerning economic education accompanied by recommendations; (4) present initiatives, challenges, and concerns for basic skills; (5) roles and responsibilities in career education, the status of career education in the United States and Virginia, its future, recommendations, and opportunities for action; (6) the responsibility for vocational education, the types of schools that are providing it, the current status, development plans, needs and obstacles for vocational education; and (7) the current status of teacher education followed by areas of concern, positive and encouraging trends, and recommendations. The study offers a vehicle to begin discussion and planning on the local level with continuing communications involving the state department of education and related educational agencies. (JK)