The national movement for educational reform that began in the 1980's has largely concentrated on improving the educational services provided to high school and preschool students. It is equally important to help elementary and middle school children and young adolescents at risk develop the social and basic academic skills needed to function at home, at school, and in the community. A study examined educational research and programs that have concentrated on coordinating public and private resources to help these students build these skills. The study resulted in eight recommendations. It was concluded that (1) program planners should concentrate on building leadership and social skills among middle grade students; (2) adult participants in programs involving young adolescents should be trained to understand the dynamics of early adolescent development and multicultural factors in attitudes and behavior; (3) children and youth at risk should not only be provided with a wide array of supportive services but should be afforded opportunities to provide services to others as well; and (4) public school systems serving high concentrations of high-risk youth should create policies encouraging maximum flexibility and responsibility for decision making at the school building level. (Document includes eight pages of references.) (MN)