This study examines the Study Circles program on education that was conducted in Arkansas and Oklahoma in the fall of 1998. Study Circles are a community involvement strategy for collaborative problem solving. They are small, highly participatory groups led by trained facilitators using materials provided by the Study Circles Resource Center. The Study Circles provide an opportunity to large numbers of citizens to deliberate issues. This was the first time statewide educational organizations had been implemented for racial and criminal justice deliberations. Each partner in the program collaborated to develop and revise pre- and post-questionnaires. The questionnaires were used to provide demographic and other participant information, evaluate the program, and examine the impact of their efforts. Preliminary information received from these first efforts indicates a positive response to this type of group dialogue and collaboration. A larger percentage of parents with school age children were noted in participating communities organized through the school superintendents. Plans are being made for an impact survey as a follow-up to the implementation and results of the group's action plans for their public schools. (Contains 21 references.) (JDM)