This guide provides information about the U.S. Department of Education's latest initiatives, updates specific programs for schools and teachers, and lists services and resources. The introductory section provides information on the Department's seven priorities as outlined in President Clinton's fifth State of the Union Address, on President Clinton's Voluntary National Testing initiative, and on the national standards being developed by various professional education associations and societies. Section 2 contains information about the Department's grant programs and other programs that may interest teachers. Section 3 offers information on services and resources provided by the Department and on how to contact the various offices responsible for them. This section also lists federal Internet resources on education. Section 4 includes information on various regional and field-based resources that the Department funds through grants and contracts. (SM)