This study reviews the research on community schools and reports on evaluations of community schools initiatives across the United States. It explains that community schools are important solutions in improving student learning. It uses research and evaluation data, as well as local school experiences, to illustrate why community schools are important to the education and development of all students. Five chapters address: (1) "The Community School Advantage" (e.g., building social capital, providing learning opportunities that develop academic and non-academic skills, and leading an effective school environment); (2) "The Conditions for Schooling" (e.g., students are motivated and engaged in learning, both in school and in community settings, and there is mutual respect and effective collaboration among parents, families, and school staff); (3) "The Impact of Community Schools: A Review of Current Evaluation Findings" (e.g., the impact of community schools in youth, families, schools, and communities); (4) "From Research to Practice" (e.g., connected learning experiences and community partnerships); and (5) "An Action Agenda" (e.g., a motivating vision and strategic organization and financing). Five appendices present: community school profiles and narrative overviews; community school evaluations (description, design, and findings); additional resources; national and local community school networks; and coalition for community school partners. Also appended is an executive summary. (Contains approximately 180 references.) (SM)