As part of a study of successful teaching for black students, two case studies of effective teaching for African Americans are presented. To date, eight teachers in a small, predominantly black school district who were identified as being effective teachers by both parents and principals have been interviewed. Two examples demonstrate the characteristics that have resulted in superior teaching for the district's students. One teacher, a white woman of considerable experience, is able to see the commonalities between her life and her students' lives. She emphasizes preparation for her classes and the importance of parent participation. The other teacher, a somewhat younger black woman who also has considerable teaching experience, also establishes a bond between herself and her students. Both teachers exemplify culturally relevant teaching, and both are aware of the fundamental importance and seriousness of the teaching task. Contains 32 notes. (SLD)