The Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal, recognizing that the community is dramatically affected by school closings, adopted a policy for dealing with declining enrollment that requires involvement of local school communities in examining the problem, helping to find solutions, and planning for the future. When a school's population falls below 60 percent of capacity, the community is informed of an impending study and invited to participate. A general meeting is held where parents are given basic data and asked to form a study group. This group, utilizing data provided by the planning office, prepares recommendations for the school board, which reserves the final decision-making authority concerning school closure or reorganization. Three school communities have successfully conducted this type of study. In both Westbrook and Connaught only a single school was involved. In Dorval, four combined in a community wide study. Experience with the process has led to a number of recommendations. To assure accurate dissemination of information, studies should begin with a general meeting of parents rather than merely a school committee meeting. Also community groups ought to have more direct input. Principals could benefit from help and support from colleagues who have gone through the process. The process should take at least ten months. (Author/JM)