Educators and policymakers in New Mexico are aware that far too many at-risk children do poorly in school, drop out, or perform poorly even if they graduate. In July 1990, the Rockefeller Foundation provided funds for a pilot "New Mexico Academy for School Leaders." The academy brought together 34 elementary school principals, teachers, parents, educational assistants, and community members to bring about fundamental restructuring of schools to benefit children at risk. The University of New Mexico operated the academy for 4 weeks, with followup activities during the fall. The academy grew out of beliefs that: (1) schools are not responding effectively to many at-risk children; (2) participatory leadership activities that include the teachers, parents, and principal can enhance school effectiveness for at-risk kids; and (3) if schools are to make the changes necessary for improving the education of at-risk children, new approaches to staff development are required. The academy's formative evaluator presents observations and interpretations of the work that preceded the academy, the summer experience itself, and the followup activities through the end of 1990. The academy's curriculum outline is appended. (LAP)