Societal changes of the past three decades call for a fundamental change in the structure of the educational system and in the culture of schooling. Disadvantaged African Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos, in particular, historically have suffered from the cultural misalignment of home, school, and community. The reform of educational culture that must take place in order to allow educationally and economically disadvantaged students to achieve their potential will be facilitated by the emerging new paradigms of society that emphasize the existence of multiple perspectives; the multiple linkages between, and the interdependence of, the various factors within the educational environment; and shared leadership. (Nine references) (CLA)