The Louisiana Accelerated Schools Project (LASP) is a statewide network of schools that are changing from the traditional mode of schooling for at-risk students, which stresses remediation, to one of acceleration, which stresses accelerated learning for all students. The accelerated schools process provides a systematic approach to the restructuring of schools that serve predominantly at-risk students. This first-year evaluation report examines the progress made by eight elementary schools who joined the LASP in 1991. Data were obtained from interviews with teachers and administrators. Following the introduction, section 2 describes the project's major milestones, focusing on the primary tasks of the project teams. Section 3 describes the status of the eight schools, focusing on the major accomplishments for each school: taking stock; developing a vision; and identifying major challenges. Section 4 examines the interview findings to assess the schools' capacity-building processes and offers evidence that the three principles of accelerated schools--unity of purpose, empowerment with responsibility, and building on strengths--are taking hold. The final section offers recommendations for the introduction of new schools and continuing assistance to second-year participants. One figure is included. The appendix includes the interview guide. (Contains 17 references.) (LMI)