Schools cannot approach the problem of street gangs with the same strategies as law enforcement agencies, but rather must create a nurturing environment for all students, where success in school and life becomes the only attractive option for gang members. Street gangs represent the racial, cultural, and economic diversity of American society. Gangs are similar to other organizations in that they have a name, claim territory, have a continuous membership, and distinguish themselves from other groups. However, to qualify as a gang, the organization must be involved in criminal activity. Gang involvement can range from simple admiration or identification with someone who is in a gang to classification by a law enforcement agency as a documented full-participant. The following factors contribute to gang involvement: (1) power; (2) pride; (3) prestige; (4) peer pressure; (5) adventure; (6) self-preservation; (7) money; and (8) limited life options. Schools must avoid the unproductive approach of attempting to identify and discipline gang members based on stereotyped behaviors. A positive educational approach to preventing gang involvement should include the following components: (1) staff development; (2) values education; (3) school climate; (4) cultural inclusion; and (5) community involvement. A list of 24 references is appended. (FMW)