The School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994 and the Goals 2000: Educate America Act both encourage the creation of school-to-work partnerships. This article outlines the design of effective school-to-work programs and the roles of its participants. Three components of school-to-work programs include work-based learning, school-based learning, and connecting activities. The article describes hands-on activities for local school boards, the kinds of grants available to states and local communities, and the role of the employer community. A conclusion is that the creation of school-business partnerships should remain a voluntary, local matter. Through personal and direct business contacts, local school boards can play a strong leadership role in forming the most effective school-to-work programs. A sidebar offers recommendations for the National Skills Standards Board, which was established by Goals 2000: (1) conduct board actions on a regional basis; and (2) facilitate voluntary partnerships to develop skill-standards systems. (LMI)