Representing part of the first phase of a 5-year ethnographic research project, this report investigates the ways in which Puerto Rican families influence their children's school achievement. The report examines the history of Puerto Rico and the migration of Puerto Ricans to the United States. Puerto Rican community organizations, both local and national, and conditions faced by Puerto Ricans in the United States, and particularly in New York City, are described. A review of research provides a detailed examination of Puerto Rican school achievement, noting that Puerto Rican achievement in the United States has generally been considered poor when measured by standardized tests. Research on Puerto Rican cultural values, family patterns and role socialization, and acculturation is also discussed, and the ways in which these areas relate to school achievement are considered. The report concludes that the Puerto Rican sense of identity must be maintained by parents and educators. It is recommended that educators and parents work together to challenge schools to address the needs of Puerto Rican students. A list of 140 references is included. (MM)