Traces how a principal reversed the downward spiral of his urban middle school by strengthening family, community, and business ties and creating a positive, challenging, and supportive school experience. The school is bolstered by business partnerships, a school-based management team, a parent liaison, and a high-risk student coordinator. (CJS)

Describes an elementary school six years after it adopted the Comer process, an educational philosophy promoting ongoing collaboration among parents, teachers, and administrators to do what is best for student learning and development. Consensus whenever possible and open expression of feelings and issues builds professionalism and community.…

Miles Park School views outreach to families, community groups, and businesses as necessary for educational success. Support programs in tutoring, counseling, and high school equivalency for parents are offered, while parents participate in grant-writing, instruction, and program development. Describes the school's drug prevention program. (CJS)

Describes the Institute for Responsive Education's Schools Reaching Out project, which attempts to increase student achievement by fostering improved relationships among families, schools, and other community agencies and institutions. These partnerships are seen as crucial in restructuring schools through parent involvement, teacher empowerment,…