Democratic schools are schools that result from explicit attempts by educators to put in place arrangements and opportunities that will bring democracy to life. These arrangements and opportunities involve two lines of work. One is to create democratic structures and processes by which life in school is carried out. The other is to create a curriculum that will give young people democratic experiences. They do not occur by accident. It takes dedicated professional educators--teachers, administrators, and staff members who are committed to the concept of democratic schools--to create them. One important lesson learned is that although teachers can use democratic methods in their classrooms and push for a democratic school, they are not likely to succeed if the principal resists the idea. For this reason, the principal's role in creating and sustaining a democratic school is essential. Successful democratic schools have certain characteristics in common: (1) Commitment to the cause; (2) Capacity for complexity; (3) Understanding of culture; (4) Ability to collaborate; (5) Patience and persistence; (6) Confidence in mission; and (7) A long view.