Inspired by the gains in student achievement realized by the small schools movement in New York City, the Oakland Unified School District (California) has proposed creating a network of 10 new, small autonomous (NSA) schools over the next 3 years. School size will range between 250 and 500 students, depending on grade level. "Autonomous" means that the school has control over curriculum, instruction, and assessment consistent with state and district standards. Each school controls its own budget, can reallocate funds, and can hire and evaluate teachers and staff. The primary purpose of developing NSA schools is to raise student achievement and close the achievement gap for under-served students. Core principles include: each NSA school must create its own vision and philosophy; each NSA school will be a school of choice, based on interest in the unique program and philosophy of the school; priority for admission will be given to children from overcrowded and low-performing schools; school admissions must reflect district demographics; and new school incubators will be available to assist in development of NSA school designs. In some cases several NSA schools may occupy a single site. Sites will be built or renovated to accommodate small autonomous schools. Policy is presented concerning development of NSA school designs, design team support, leadership and district-level support, school governance, professional development, community engagement, school financing, collective bargaining, and a third-year evaluation to determine whether to modify or terminate the policy. (TD)