During the King Center Charter School's five years of existence, the school has evolved into a unique 21st century laboratory school, soliciting meaningful parental involvement to help close the achievement gap for the students. As indicated, students' academic achievement and social/ emotional competency have increased over the years. This article describes a real community effort and collaboration that resulted in a positive learning environment for children, teachers, and families in one of the most economically disadvantaged sections of the city of Buffalo. (Contains 10 online resources.)