The article analyzes the readiness of teachers of high schools to change their professional culture and their teaching style according to the new demands of state and society. The article identifies two aspects: first, whether teachers internalize the demands of parents and state representatives, and second, the primary motivation that leads to the choice of this profession. The readiness of teachers for changes in their professional activity is considered in the context of the socio-cultural transformations currently going on in Russia. The article is based on the data of a large-scale survey performed in May–June 2005 by the Center of Sociological Studies of Moscow State University in the framework of the project «Reforms of the Education System». The project, financed by an IBRD loan, is being carried out by the National Foundation for Staff Training.