The application of an educational planning model designed for involving a representative sample of school patrons in decision making is described with reference to the case of Gilbert, Arizona. The article focuses on the first of the model's three phases: prioritizing goals, curriculum development, and program design and evaluation. (MJL)

Agrees with the Carnegie report that schools must be rebuilt, rather than merely repaired. Describes the organizational structure and six common principles of the Coalition of Essential Schools; gives examples of working, experimental school programs; and describes several studies currently being prepared. Eleven footnotes are appended. (IW)