A joint venture in urban high school reform

This article describes a joint attempt by the federal government, a private foundation, several local social service agencies, and a local school district to revitalize an urban high school and its neighboring community. This revitalization was to occur through the development of an information system that would provide high school students, adult learners, and community residents with data on educational and job opportunities in St. Louis. The information system was to be reinforced by counseling and referral services provided jointly by the school system and by local civic organizations.The intended purposes and potential impact of such a project that aims at urban high school reform are discussed. The paper provides some insights into the potential pitfalls involved in the implementation of small discretionary projects, as well as the promise of providing integrated social services to an urban population.Presently Assistant Vice President, The Fashion Institute of Technology.