As part of the process of redefining institutional growth and vitality, the Dallas Community College District is attempting to become a "learning society," that is, an institution which is capable of on-going critical self-examination, which is process-oriented, and which encourages the development of new ideas. The major components involved in achieving this goal are: (1) becoming a community with a strong core of shared values based on behaviors that enhance the work environment, such as trust, honesty, fairness, cooperation, creativity, and risk taking; (2) encouraging staff to become more responsible with respect to their own behaviors; and (3) creating more options and more time for growth using strategies such as setting aside work days during which administrators read, write, and plan for professional growth; using resource consultants to provide logistical support for administrators; developing a comprehensive council structure to encourage grassroots involvement in decision making; and encouraging free-forming groups to pursue innovative and creative activities. As the District personnel focus on their values, become more self-aware, and develop more options for professional growth, they are becoming a community capable of stimulating and supporting each other. "A Commitment Statement of the Dallas Community College District: Organizational Values" is appended. (HB)