"A college education is the key to a bright future." That is the message that Principal Sharon Johnson sends to prospective students in an introductory letter. With that introduction and the school motto--"Where every student is college bound"--there is no mistaking the goal for graduates of Withrow University High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. High expectations mean that every student is expected to attend college or a postsecondary program. In fact, all seniors must apply to the University of Cincinnati and are expected to complete four college applications before winter break. Even the school's architecture, which bears a likeness to a university campus, seems to echo the message that if a student can buckle down and focus, then the future will indeed be bright. Since the opening of the school in 2002, Johnson has been steadfast in her belief that creating an atmosphere of success and high expectations is key to helping students achieve their college dreams. Because most students arrive at Withrow lacking in some skills, the school quickly begins to address any deficiencies through its remediation program and puts students into college-preparatory classes as soon as possible. Withrow was redesigned from a large, failing urban high school into a smaller, more personalized school. Personalization is achieved through a structured, caring environment in which students receive personal attention and instruction.