This document provides an overview of the Regional Educational Laboratory operated by the Appalachia Educational Laboratory (AEL) during 1986-1990. AEL staff works with educators in ongoing research and development-based efforts to improve education and educational opportunity in Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Part I of the report provides a systematic summary of the Regional Lab's intended and actual outcomes at two different levels. Section A deals with institution-level matters, and Section B deals with project-level matters. Projects conducted by AEL include: (1) the Regional Liaison Center; (2) the Classroom Instruction Program; (3) the School Governance and Administration Program; (4) the Policy and Planning Center; (5) the Professional Preparation and Research Program; (6) the School Services Center; and (7) the Rural, Small Schools Program. Part II presents a series of statements relevant to accomplishments, collaboration, and insights about successful practices and barriers to success. Part III provides graphic depictions that summarize some of the most salient features of the Lab's performance during the five-year period and provides a complete listing of the deliverables and other tangible products submitted by the Lab under its 1986-90 contract. Part IV reports only the fifth and final year of AEL's performance. (KS)