Teachers of mathematics are leading a nationwide effort to bring about a complete redesign of both school and college mathematics programs by setting new and more demanding standards for what students must learn about mathematics, as well as for what teachers themselves must accomplish as professionals in the classroom. This brief document is directed to local school boards, school administrators, parents, college and university faculties, policymakers and government, business and industry leaders, members of the media, and teachers. In several short sections it describes why significant change in mathematics education is necessary, what steps have been taken thus far to bring about such change on a nationwide basis, and how demanding the challenges are that teachers face in carrying out the task. The document ends by describing specific actions that can be taken to support the efforts of mathematics teachers to meet the high standards they have set for their profession. Twelve references are followed by lists of members of the Mathematical Sciences Education Board and related publications. (JJK)