Findings from descriptions of successful practice and studies of school effectiveness are presented in this collection of readings, which provide a background of the rationale and recommendations for implementing school improvement. The readings also serve as a detailed reference for school improvement teams who have participated in training institutes presented by the National Center for Effective Schools Research and Development. The readings were developed collaboratively by practitioners and school improvement facilitators. The first narrative describes the origins of effective schools research and defines the criteria for an effective school in terms of quality and equity. The second narrative describes the research-based school characteristics and processes that correlate with quality and equity of student outcomes. School and district leadership behaviors necessary to initiate school improvement processes are examined in narrative 3. The fourth narrative is concerned with creating and communicating a mission for change. The fifth and sixth narratives examine the organizational structure and processes necessary to support school improvement at the district and building levels. Strategies to utilize data in the school improvement process are identified in the final narrative. References accompany each narrative. (LMI)