Well-developed models exist for the creation of multischool networks to promote the replication of effective practices beyond a single school. These networks are found in the Catholic schools. These networks are excellent models for the effective linkage of schools serving students of different socioeconomic and cultural groups in widely separated locations. This study describes networks developed by five Catholic orders: (1) the Jesuits; (2) the Irish Christian Brothers; (3) the Religious of the Sacred Heart; (4) the Holy Child Sisters; and (5) the Lasallian Christian Brothers. These are only a small, although very visible, part of the orders that have sponsored networks. There are reasons to believe that the religious sponsorship of these schools does not preclude the use of their experiences by other educational institutions and organizations. In each of these orders, the founder established an effective school and then was able to replicate it. Their experiences illustrate the importance of a clear vision of purpose, a mission. The importance of a sense of community is evident in the practices of these school networks. Some central services are provided for these networks, but decisions are made at the lowest appropriate level. There is an accountability system appropriate to the site-managed system, and this is a part of the body of experience that might be useful in the restructuring of public schools, and particularly urban schools, to work without a cumbersome central bureaucracy. (Contains 44 references.) (SLD)