This pamphlet is a four-step blueprint for a school-to-work system for getting students ready for work. Step one proposes that every school-to-work system be guided by the following principles: (1) encourage participants to attain high academic standards; (2) encourage students to stay in school; (3) link classroom curriculum to work-site experiences and emphasize lifelong learning; and (4) enhance students' prospects for employment. Step 2 ensures a career resource center in every high school to provide career counseling and information about careers. In step 3, the school-to-work system provides students with options that will help them learn and gain the skills needed to compete. The following options are suggested: youth apprenticeships, cooperative education, tech prep, school-based enterprises, career academies, vocational-technical schools, and vocational student organizations. Step 4 is to certify graduates in terms of what they have learned and to support them in the following ways: (1) be sure graduates know how to apply for employment; (2) offer job placement assistance; and (3) provide evaluation and follow-up to see whether graduates are getting and holding career-related jobs. A checklist of activities and a list of 12 sources for more information are provided. (CML)