This report provides the groundwork for a study of racial balance in San Francisco's public schools. Outlined are patterns which emerged from the experiences other cities had in trying to combat racial imbalance. An overview of interviews with community groups illustrates the priorities such a study should be concerned with in the area of pupil assignment. Alternative plans covering such areas as school attendance boundaries, feeder systems, paired schools, and major school reorganization are individually described and evaluated. Also described are systems for demographic and transportation analysis. Methods and estimated costs for establishing these systems are detailed. A brief discussion of the major demographic trends in San Francisco is presented in an attempt to determine the potential impact of specific projects. In addition, projected costs for various transportation facilities that may be used in achieving racial balance are provided. A schedule for Phase II of the research project is also included. (EB)