This pamphlet is a capsule commentary on the Kirschner field research project which attempted to obtain a greater understanding of Head Start's role in influencing community health and educational programs. The general goals for Head Start are summarized and expanded to include objectives unique to this survey. Specifically, the Kirschner project hoped to illuminate the general question of how to achieve changes in local institutions utilizing a nationwide educational innovation as the intervention strategy. Field work in 42 communities representing high, medium, low, and no levels of Head Start activity identified four kinds of changes consistent with Head Start programs and policies. The 1,496 changes, when pinpointed, could be distributed into four categories: (1) increased decision-making, (2) greater employment, (3) greater educational emphasis, and (4) modification of health services. Although institutional changes took place in a complex social environment, Head Start did seem to have a generally positive influence in modifying local institutions so they became more responsive to the needs and desires of the poor. A complete report of this research project is available as PS 003 672. (WY)