Schools and business must unite to make all the changes needed to ensure the success of all children. Social change, particularly the increase in single-parent families, has resulted in more children being born at risk of school failure. Most early childhood education reform initiatives have been piecemeal and have lacked a true understanding of at-risk children's complex needs. The following imperatives for educational improvement are discussed: (1) the nation needs a comprehensive, coordinated human investment strategy for child development and education; (2) programs should strengthen the entire family; (3) teen parents who have not finished high school should have access to a specialized school that meets their needs; (4) early childhood education should be available to all children; (5) programs must be flexible in design, administration, and funding; (6) successful programs must be broadly replicated; (7) the mission of the public schools must be redefined to account for social changes, including development of clearer goals and more effective methods of measurement to permit accountability; (8) students must take greater responsibility for their own success; (9) business should encourage volunteerism; and (10) business should play a leadership role in identifying strategies and determining what resources are needed. Twenty-four successful programs are highlighted. Statistical data are presented in two tables and one graph. A list of 35 references, 8 dissenting comments, and a list of the objectives of the Committee for Economic Development are appended. (FMW)