This document presents briefing papers for the seven gubernatorial task forces proposed in the National Governors' Association Action Plan for Attaining Educational Excellence. An introductory section discusses the complementary responsibilities of Federal, State, and local governments for assuring access to educational opportunities for all students. A conceptual framework is described for addressing reform issues through the strategic use of state powers and authorities to introduce the best elements of a market orientation to the educational enterprise. Such an orientation is intended, it is said, to empower the providers of service (teachers and administrators) to produce a better, more cost effective and responsive product, while, at the same time, empowering the consumers of educational services (parents, students, and taxpayers) to exercise greater choice in the educational product they buy. The task forces, which will be convened to explore options and develop strategies for State action within this framework, are discussed individually in the next seven sections of the briefing book. Six of the areas of reform deal with issues related to elementary-secondary education, and one deals with post-secondary education. The topics discussed are as follows: (2) Expanding Educational Opportunity and Choice; (3) Improving Young People's Readiness for School; (4) Attracting and Retaining Talented Teachers; (5) Encouraging Results Oriented Leadership; (6) Making More Efficient Use of School Buildings; (7) Making Effective Educational Use of Advanced Technology; and (8) College Quality. Each section provides background on the proposed scope of inquiry of each task force, and a discussion of current state practices, relevant research findings, and the state policy issues to be addressed by each task force. The ninth and final section describes proposed task force activities and provides timetables for the entire initiative. (KH)