This publication focuses on motivation at the school level and identifies ways in which administrators can improve student academic achievement. Chapter 1 discusses the influence of school culture on student motivation, based on recent research that suggests the importance of educational leaders in creating a motivating environment for improved student performance. Chapter 2 examines the relationships among student motivation, current educational practices, and school restructuring. Research indicates that many pedagogical practices effectively stifle most students' desire to learn. This calls for a radical change in teaching. The third chapter provides a brief overview of some current theories of motivation at the individual and organizational levels. The conclusion suggests that school leaders attempt a variety of strategies for increasing student motivation. Three approaches are identified: cultivating a conducive school culture; restructuring instructional practices; and understanding the variety of motivational factors. Specific administrative tactics are outlined. Four figures are included. (Contains 51 references.) (LMI)