The goal of the Elementary and Middle School Readinq and Communication Skills Component of the Detroit School desegregation plan was to improve students' reading achievement. The major facet of the program was a reading instruction management system called the Detroit Objective-Referenced Tests System (DORT). DORT is a diagnostic-prescriptive approach based on specific skill objectives for each of Grades K throuqh 8. Additionally, the program called for parent involvement in the improvement of middle school students' reading abilities. Results of a product evaluation of the program provided evidence of progress toward the goal of improved reading achievement. Evaluative findings showed that: (1) average levels of reading achievement improved generally in elementary and middle schools; (2) there were continuous gains in attainments of specific reading skills objectives in grades 4 and 7; (3) teachers were adapting reading instruction to individual student needs; and (4) parents were helped in assisting in the improvement of their children's reading abilities. (Author/MK)