In this interview, Reverend Floyd H. Flake, member, United States House of Representatives and Founder of the Allen Christian School, discusses how the school was started, and outlines its focus, goals, and values. The school was begun because black students do not seem to perform as well when they are being taught with white students. Rev. Flake, with the help of members of his congregation in Jamaica (New York) decided black pupils needed an opportunity to learn in a black environment the skills everyone needs for success in contemporary society. Emphasis is on pride in black heritage and history, basic instruction in reading, writing and mathematics, instruction in a foreign language, and encouragement to attain academic excellence. Competitiveness and discipline must be elements of education for black students. Religious institutions, which still maintain the respect of large numbers of blacks, can have a significant impact on the education of black children. This educational progress will have to take place independently of the public school system and probably of white assistance. (PS)