Radical reform in science and mathematics education is needed to prepare citizens for challenges of the emerging knowledge-based global economy. We consider definite proposals to establish: (1) Standards of science and math literacy for all students. (2) Integration of the science curriculum with structure of matter, energy, models and modeling as unifying themes. (3) Pedagogy promoting scientific inquiry and argumentation. (4) Sustained professional development and support for teachers. (5) Institutional support from local universities for continuous upgrades in curriculum and teaching practices. Physics plays a central role in all these reforms.