This study shows that there is a positive correlation between self esteem and academic achievement for inner city black children. Seventy-eight grade 6 black students were divided into the following categories: upper one-third and lower third based on intelligence test scores, standardized reading test scores, and grade point average (GPA) from the last three semesters. The scale used to measure self esteem was an adaptation of the Self Esteem Scale developed by Rosenberg (1965). The results showed that children who had a high degree of school success, as measured by GPA and reading level, scored significantly higher than did less successful students. These data support the theory that good performance in school is associated with a high self esteem. [Not available in hard copy due to marginal legibility of original document.] (KG)