This article discusses an instructional development system called "holistic" approach, a strategy to improve high school education in Chicago. The initiative includes new curriculum materials, aligned to district standards, as well as assessments and ongoing teacher coaching and training that are designed for the curriculum. The design reflects the district's attempt to: (1) Provide the right balance of course structure and support for teachers; (2) Give teachers all the tools they need to do their jobs well using proven approaches, designed by experts to meet district standards; (3) Make coaching and professional development concrete, practical, and flexible to meet teachers' needs; (4) Include support for principals to handle implementation and school improvement; (5) Ensure the program is compatible with the needs of students in special education and English-language learners; and (6) Use proven approaches, designed by experts, to meet district standards. Though the initiative has its skeptics and critics, more than a few people are giving it a warm welcome, particularly its pairing of strong curriculum with in-depth, ongoing teacher training.