This document presents the recommendations of a special Advisory Committee on Educational Options, which was charged with developing a strategic plan for educational options in California. This working document is intended to set broad goals and program directions for meeting the future needs of California's youth. The introductory section describes the future directions of California education. Section 2 addresses the long-term needs of education, such as adjusting to the information era, combating the skill gap, responding to ethnic and cultural diversity, engaging all students, and making learning a lifelong commitment. The third section provides information on current programs and their performances. Section 4 offers guidelines for the next century, which center on increasing accountability, developing a system of educational options, facilitating student choice and achievement, enhancing staff and program support, and improving planning and coordination. A total of 21 recommendations are offered in the fifth section. The final section describes first steps toward implementing the guidelines outlined in section 4. Twenty-eight exhibits and lists of advisory committee members, project staff, and acknowledgements are included. (LMI)