Intended for teachers and administrators who work with Chapter 1, Education Consolidation and Improvement Act programs, this report describes elements identified by researchers as essential features of successful schooling. After discussing the impact of schools and teachers and the interrelatedness of their effectiveness, it presents 13 attributes consistently present in effective classrooms and schools. Organizational attributes are as follows: (1) positive school/classroom climate; (2) clear goals and objectives; (3) coordination with the regular school program/other special programs; (4) parent/community involvement; (5) professional development and training; (6) evaluation results used for project improvement; and (7) strong leadership. Instructional attributes are as follows: (1) appropriate instructional materials, methods, and approaches; (2) maximum use of academic learning time; (3) high expectations for student learning and behavior; (4) closely monitored student progress; (5) regular feedback and reinforcement; and (6) excellence recognized and rewarded. For each of these attributes, pertinent research is provided, as are examples of ways they are manifested in successful programs. Practitioners should expect program improvement to be time consuming and initially confusing, and to require administrative support. (LHW)