Some basic considerations undergird partnerships between schools and colleges undertaken to work on problems of mutual concern that may be difficult to solve individually. Studies have indicated that successful collaboratives require the existence of certain special conditions and the surmounting of certain barriers. Research studies have pointed to factors that facilitate and maintain collaboration. Five major factors are considered important for collaborative development: (1) assessment of needs, (2) decision making, (3) willingness to reach out, (4) apperceptive base, and (5) flexibility. Brief descriptions are given of 10 major partnership projects undertaken between 1984 and 1989; a more detailed description is given of a model collaborative entered into by an urban school district and a university in New York City. The purpose of the partnership was to provide a graduate study program for inner-city elementary school teachers seeking a master of science degree. (JD)