Mathematics professional communities were urged to make a strong, coordinated, and visible commitment to strengthening the mathematical preparation of elementary teachers. The Texas Statewide Systemic Initiative (Texas SSI) recommends that teachers complete a minimum of nine credit hours in mathematics. Texas SSI further recommends that these courses reflect the guidelines presented in this document. These guidelines were developed for the use of mathematics faculty who teach or design courses for preservice teachers at institutions of higher education in Texas, although they may be adapted for different audiences. The first section of this document outlines guidelines for the mathematics component of the elementary teacher education program and applies to the mathematics courses that are studied by elementary teacher candidates. The second section of the document describes the responsibilities and the role of assessment in supporting instruction and content. (Contains 23 references.) (ASK)