This special issue is the final issue of "Cityschools," a magazine that reports on research regarding the transformation of urban schools and makes this research more accessible to practitioners in urban classrooms. The research is described through the stories of real educators who are finding solutions to educational problems. The focus of the special issue is achievement, one of the most important issues in urban education today. "Achievement in Urban Schools: What Makes the Difference? A Conversation with Kati Haycock" by Ann Freel discusses the findings of the Education Trust in its report "Education Watch.""Are Urban Teachers 'Ready To Teach'? Helping Teachers Meet 21st Century Challenges" by Judy Taylor with Lenaya Raack and Ann Freel considers the types of professional development that make a difference for urban teachers and urban students. "Does Governance Reform Make a Difference" is a special section that explores the history of governance reform in U.S. cities and the governance strategies that promise to make a difference. Robin La Sota, in "It's Not All about Test Scores," provides an overview of proven classroom and school-community strategies that build positive youth development. "Successful Strategies for Schools Serving At-Risk Children: An Interview with Dr. Samuel Strongfield" by Glibel Gomez and Heidi Hulse Mickelson discusses a new study by the Center on the Social Organization of Schools at Johns Hopkins University about the types of school improvement programs that make the most difference in student achievement. The issue also points out additional resources that can help the urban educator, with emphasis on electronic resources. The North Central Regional Educational Laboratory is expanding its own focus on electronic media and expects to continue to bring information on educational research to the audience of "Cityschools" though electronic resources. (SLD)