This heuristic narratological inquiry used video-taped interviews and observations to explore the experiences of 145 urban students in grades one through six who also represented diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The goal of the study was to identify curricular and pedagogical strategies that enhance what students love about school, while diminishing factors they disliked. Digital video recording captured students' voices as "stories about school," which provided thick description for analysis and interpretation. Through heuristic inquiry, the researchers used their personal insights and experiences to identify themes that suggested elementary students in urban schools want instruction that is active and engaging, makes use of their strengths and talents, and involves them in making choices about what and how to learn. They want caring teachers who have high academic expectations and desire to know more about their individual cultures as well as the cultures of other people.