This guide is designed to help school staff plan effective summer programs for disadvantaged children by offering an array of ideas for designing exciting and stimulating summer programs and offering important information from research and practice on what makes an effective summer program. If schools are to expect excellence from disadvantaged children, these children must have challenging, positive summer experiences they can use as a base for future learning. In addition, summer experiences should offer a chance to bring new levels of self-confidence and achievement to disadvantaged students. Structural attributes of successful programs include strong instructional leadership, high expectations, and respect for diversity. Organizational arrangements involve efficient use of time, staff development, and parent involvement. Components of good curriculum and instruction build on students' prior knowledge, and emphasize classroom management, integrated learning, and recognition of success. Accountability and use of appropriate assessments are hallmarks of the schools' sense of responsibility to students and the community. Sixteen model summer programs are described including goals, curriculum and instruction, evidence of success, and comments and contact persons. Appended is a list of places providing information and assistance, including Chapter 1 Technical Assistance Centers and regional education laboratories. (JB)