Nine locally initiated projects designed to improve the connections for problem solving between urban schools and the community were examined. Results showed that the desired school/community connections were difficult to achieve and seemed fragile and vulnerable. A new approach to school reform in urban schools is suggested. (AOS)

This paper traces the development of input from the black community of Bradford, North Carolina, in the decision-making, administration, and resource allocation of the local school district. The approaches taken by blacks and by the traditional interests in the district to express their respective ideas during this development are analyzed and…