The conference reported in this document sought to do the following: (1) focus attention on the problem of underachieving minority students, and issue a call for action to improve their educational achievement; (2) promote dialogue on promising practices aimed at solving the problem; (3) foster collaboration on solutions among practitioners, policy makers, and researchers; (4) identify critical research and development (R&D) needs; and (5) identify significant testing and evaluation issues for future investigation. The 27 papers presented are grouped into 8 sections addressing the following topics: (1) our national dilemma (how to provide disadvantaged students with a meaningful education); (2) developing effective instructional programs; (3) reducing the number of dropouts; (4) preparing students for success at the postsecondary level; (5) helping limited English proficient students succeed; (6) improving teacher effectiveness; (7) the role of testing and evaluation; and (8) collaborative arrangements. The major findings of the conference are presented as a series of recommendations in answer to the following questions: (1) what are the most important keys to improving education for underachieving minority students; (2) what are the most significant impediments to implementing these key ideas; (3) what federal, state, and local actions (other than direct funding) would most help; and (4) how could R&D in educational testing and evaluation best contribute to solutions? An appendix provides the conference program and a list of presenters and attendees. (BJV)