This guide explains how low-performing schools can become high-achieving ones, using information from studies of Title I schools. It presents practical ideas from these schools and communities as well as the research base behind their success. The nine chapters are (1) "Five Steps to a Good Start" (e.g., help parents understand how children's social and learning abilities develop); (2) "Four Steps for Setting the Course" (e.g., set academic success of all students as the school's mission); (3) "Five Ways To Serve Families and Thus Help Students Succeed" (e.g., use nontraditional forms of communication to reach out to parents); (4) "Five Ways To Assure Quality Teaching" (e.g., hold teachers responsible for student achievement); (5) "Four Essentials for Setting and Supporting High Standards" (e.g., create small learning environments); (6) "Six Ways to Tell If Your School Is Serious about Teaching Reading and Math" (e.g., emphasizing pre-reading skills in preschool and kindergarten); (7) "Five Steps to Using Assessment as an Effective Tool for Accountability" (e.g., use assessments to monitor the quality of instruction); (8) "Seven Steps To Assure Equity and Inclusion" (e.g., oppose both retention and social promotion); and (9) "Four Ways To Make Reforms Stick" (e.g., publicize progress). Tools, resources, and a glossary are appended. (SM)