Total Quality Management (TQM) is a process and strategy designed to improve an organization's effectiveness and efficiency. The Elyria Schools, named as Ohio's model urban school district in 1991, uses TQM to implement updated strategic goals through a process emphasizing teamwork, best knowledge, prevention, and commitment to continuous improvement. Benefits include reduced service costs, increased productivity, improved service levels, flexibility in meeting changing customer and environmental needs, improved communications, increased employee involvement and morale, decreased turnover, and increased community satisfaction. The Elyria Schools First Initiative, aimed at developing a collective vision and strategy for curricular and operational development through the 1990s, is based on trend forecasting; environmental scans and educational research findings; local reports of the economy, education, and the work force; state mandates; and business roundtable principles. A 47-member strategic planning task force comprised of classified and certified employees, administrators, and board members worked with parents, students, business leaders, and other citizens to develop a working document stating the group's mission statement, values and philosophy, and strategic goals. These are outlined in this booklet, along with a summary of action plans. (MLH)