This is a preliminary report of two years participant observation in four elementary schools. The study began with the objective of trying to discern the characteristics differentiating the atmonspheres of elementary schools in the metropolis. Case studies are presented in order to arrive at hypotheses concerning what gives different schools their peculiar atmospheres, and what makes a difference for the academic achievement and personal development of the pupils. The first of the case studies on which the report is based was made in a suburb where school system was reputed to be among the best in the nation. During the second year, a school system in the central city was studied. The researchers' observations and detailed descriptions of the schools are presented. (Author/EK)