Community schools bring the full range of educational enrichment, health, and social services that all families need under the roof of the public school. For service providers and schools alike, it can be an effective and relatively inexpensive way to serve the community's families and children. This brochure has been developed for concerned and active parents who believe that their child's school can be and do more for their child, family, and community. It gives an introduction to the community school approach, explains its benefits for parents and their children, and offers some simple steps that can be taken to begin creating a new community school. Key distinguishing features of these schools include education being the first priority, extended hours and more learning opportunities, family involvement and support, onsite services, community support, and long-term partnerships between the school system, community agencies, and parents. Recent studies indicate that high-quality community school programs can improve academic achievement, attendance, and parental involvement, while creating a safer and friendlier school environment. The brochure concludes with an annotated list of community school resources. (RT)