This article features Franklin Middle School which is located in the heart of an economically challenged neighborhood in the small urban city of Champaign in central Illinois. Though staffed by dedicated adults and attended by hardworking students, Franklin is recovering from a difficult past. As a result of years of racial discord, segregation, and lawsuits, in January 2002, the Champaign Unit 4 School District adopted a judicial consent decree outlining an educational equity agreement. Key points included establishing processes for parental choice of schools and increased community involvement. Franklin supports a thriving honors-level program, which is open to all students. Intense monitoring of student progress is a hallmark of Franklin. Principal Angela Smith's understanding of the bridges and barriers that exist among stakeholders has allowed her to find ways to bring the forces together to support a common goal: excellence for all students.