This book uses case studies of 12 Chicago elementary schools undergoing reform (in response to the Chicago School Reform Act of 1988) to examine how effective social relationships can serve as a prime resource for school improvement. It discusses how the myriad social exchanges that make up daily life in a school community generate, or fail to generate, a successful educational environment. Part 1, "Framing Themes and Illuminating Theory," includes (1) "The Social Foundations of Schooling: An Overlooked Dimension for Improvement" and (2) "Relational Trust" (with Julie Kochanek). Part 2, "Relational Trust in Three Urban School Communities," includes (3) "Ridgeway Elementary School: The Costs of Conflicted Leadership" (with Sharon Greenberg and Julie Kochanek); (4) "Thomas Elementary School: Cultural Diversity as an Obstacle to Trust" (with Sharon Greenberg and Julie Kochanek); and (5) "Holiday Elementary School: Dedicated to the Welfare of Children" (with Sharon Greenberg and Julie Kochanek). Part 3, "Effects and Implications," includes (6) "Relational Trust and Improving Academic Achievement" (with Julie Kochanek) and (7) "Analytic and Policy Implications for School Reform." Three appendices include a description of the field study, measures and other variables used, and analysis details. (Contains approximately 200 references.) (SM)