The task of Jewish education, in Michael Meyer's view, is to help Jews find their way through complex contemporary realities while maintaining a vibrant Jewish identity. Meyer bases his vision of Jewish education on tenets of “classical” liberal Jewish thought even as he advocates significant change. His scholarship on the history of modern Jewish identity, religion, and education illuminates the accepted approach to Jewish education in the Reform movement while highlighting the innovative elements in his vision. For example, whereas Reform Jewish education has stressed freedom in decision making, Meyer believes that children should be inducted into Judaism from the earliest age in order to establish a basis for their crafting of Jewish beliefs and practices as adults. In contrast to the traditional Reform emphasis on the universal aspects of Jewish religious and social ideals, Meyer argues for a focus on “where Judaism differs.” Furthermore, while most Reform education takes place in the synagogue and afternoon school, Meyer makes a case for a greater emphasis on the home, day school, and summer camp. In addition to the study of Jewish holidays and the Bible, Meyer insists on instruction in ritual practice and the study of halakhah (Jewish law) and Jewish history.

Meyer's views articulate an emerging voice within the Reform movement, but one that has not become mainstream. Convinced that these educational ideas were critical for the future of the Reform movement he pressed for an opportunity to convene Reform educators so that they might consider his proposals.