Inherent in the nature of community schools is the assumption that many more challenges can be overcome when those involved work together than when working on one's own. This assumption forms the basis of the efforts described in this manual. It describes what community schools are; the challenges they face; and the new realities for schools, families, and communities that form the context for community schools. Attention is given to the Children's Aid Society (CAS) and how it has created community schools in New York State. School curriculum and structure, integration of health, mental, and other services, and early childhood programs are covered. Results to date of the CAS schools are presented, including improved academic performance, higher attendance rates, greater parental involvement, and safer schools. The team-building and sustaining processes are also described where community agencies are brought in as partners in education. Other important points covered are the planning and financing of the school. Finally, nine concrete initial steps are presented that can form the basis of an action plan. This manual concludes with a list of reading resources and Web sites. (Contains 88 references and 8 resource Web sites.) (RT)