This timely volume examines one of the nation's largest and most promising urban school reform initiatives, Project GRAD (Graduation Really Achieves Dreams). This extraordinary program, originally designed for state-level application in Texas, has been successfully adapted to many other locations across the United States. Told through intimate narratives of students and educators, this compelling story: Examines a replicable reform model that has transformed dangerous, inner-city schools into functional learning communities where student achievement rates have soared. Focuses on the national expansion of Project GRAD, presenting a method of reform that creates good schools by fitting its framework over existing structures rather than abandoning failing schools. Describes all of the obstacles and tensions that surface when the worlds of business, philanthropy, and public education converge on one project. Offers concrete solutions to the chronic problems of urban schools struggling with poverty and the incessant demands of state and federal mandates.

The middle-school years mark a critical transition period for young adolescents and their parents. This breakthrough volume empowers parents to advocate for the very best education for their children by clearly explaining what adolescents need--and what makes them tick.