This report reviews the history of school desegregation in Providence, analyzes the role of various individuals and groups in the desegregation process, and discusses the community's response. Background information on Providence is given in terms of government, population shifts, school enrollment, and school restructuring. An analysis of the evolution of desegregation in Providence deals with racial imbalance, discriminatory practices, community attitudes, magnet schools, and resistance. Basic principles of the Providence Plan are described. These include Providence's three-phase implementation, busing, funding, and staffing. Community concerns discussed range from support by the media, certain community groups, and black parents to the opposition of white parents. Problems with discipline and racial tension are also discussed. In addition, Providence's nine-year process is evaluated on the basis of its successes and failures. Advantages cited include greater understanding among and less stereotyping of different racial, ethnic and cultural groups and a better preparation for life in a pluralistic society. Problems pointed out are the continuing underrepresentation of minority teachers in the school system, the tendency toward resegregation in the classroom, the school department's failure to maintain racial balance in accordance with state guidelines, and the disproportionate number of black students bused under the plan. (EB)