This paper presents the eight major categories of recommendations made by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' (NCTM's) booklet "An Agenda for Action," that are considered components of programs designed to improve mathematics education, and as a by-product, raise mathematics scores of pupils on standardized tests. The three major and urgent problems that must be addressed are: (1) School mathematics programs are generally not keeping pace with the changing needs for mathematical ability dictated by changing technologies; (2) Most students are not studying sufficient high school mathematics to prepare them for their futures as workers, consumers, or citizens; and (3) There is a growing shortage of qualified mathematics teachers in the secondary classroom. The NCTM offers the professional organization's resources, efforts, and commitment to the solution of the problems addressed, and has provided a blueprint to begin. The actual solutions depend upon the actions of the public. (MP)