El Camino's first year as a fundamental high school is described. Students wanting to attend El Camino had to apply and agree to the new fundamental emphasis and school rules. As a result, the composition of El Camino's student body changed to one representing all ability levels. Other major changes at El Camino were: (1) academic emphasis was placed on basic skills and (2) school rules such as closed campus, dress code, and no smoking were communicated and enforced. Academic achievement during the first year was measured by the district's minimum competency tests and the Tests of Achievement and Proficiency (TAP). Overall academic achievement remained high. Average test scores on TAP were well above the national average and the percent passing the minimum competency tests increased. Attitudes toward El Camino were measured by surveys completed by parents, students and staff. General observations by all groups were that coursework was harder this year; students had more homework; students learned more; the new rules such as closed campus and dress code were enforced but unpopular with the students; and El Camino would improve more next year. (Author/GK)