This paper traces the history of Ontario's curriculum development, analyzes the short- and long-term effects of declining enrollment on the present curriculum, explores possible extensions of the school system, and discusses social policy in relation to the curriculum. A survey of boards and teachers and interviews with supervisory officers in Ontario provide a listing of program practices influenced by pupil reduction and possible courses of action to offset such influences. In considering the reorganization of the curriculum to adjust to retrenchment, the task force argues that the basic principles of individuality, equality of opportunity, and local participation in decision-making must be joined by an attention to social goals that encompass work and leisure patterns, and multicultural and special education needs. Their recommendations include the development of a curricular foundations program (seeking less curricular diversity while still meeting the needs of individual students), the adoption of local curriculum/professional development centers, and the establishment of one or more curriculum materials development centers. (Author/WD)