Based on findings from the "High School and Beyond" (HS&B) national longitudinal study conducted in 1980, an agenda is suggested for decision making within schools that serve Hispanic children. This agenda is based on the needs and attitudes of the children and includes the following: (1) an emphasis on human relations of the school to develop a friendly and learning-oriented atmosphere; (2) involvement of students and parents in the process; (3) revised academic remediation and school tracking policies; (4) experimentation with work and study programs for older students; (5) additional resources to help students meet new academic requirements before they are imposed; and (6) modification of instructional styles to raise motivation for learning. Other suggestions are made based on the idea that an individual school can successfully undertake its own improvement. Charts and tables on 1980 high school sophomores provide data on their attitudes and beliefs concerning school and their personal lives. Examples of successful programs for at risk students are included. (AO)