Among the most important funding resources for states and localities are the programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Amendments to the ESEA enacted in 1994 make it easier for states and school districts to use ESEA resources to augment, expand, and support state and local reforms that will help move every child toward high standards and move the nation toward realizing the eight National Education Goals. This "companion document" to the ESEA discusses how states, school districts, and schools can link ESEA programs with each other, with Goals 2000, and with state and local programs to support coherent school reform efforts that raise achievement of all students. The document is organized around five major themes that guide ESEA programs: (1) high standards for all children, with the elements of education aligned; (2) a focus on teaching and learning; (3) partnerships among families, communities, and schools that support student achievement to high standards; (4) flexibility to stimulate local school-based and district initiatives, coupled with responsibility for student performance; and (5) resources targeted to areas of greatest needs, in amounts sufficient to make a difference. Part 1 of the document gives the background and brief history of ESEA, outlines the respective roles of ESEA and Goals 2000 in education reform, and describes how states, districts, and schools can plan for change. A table summarizes all of the programs authorized by the ESEA. Part 2 explains each of the law's five guiding themes in more detail and describes key ESEA program and statutory provisions that advance each theme. Examples illustrate how state and local programs put ESEA funds to use. Appendices contain a list of regional assistance centers, a list of guidance documents issued by the U.S. Department of Education, and the National Education Goals. (LMI) [Rescinded: This document has been formally rescinded by the Department and remains available on the web for historical purposes only.]