In this article the author describes and explains the development of the distribution of ethnic groups between schools in the Dutch school system. Three mechanisms steer this distribution: (a) founding and maintaining schools along "religious" lines, (b) the academic selectivity of the school system, and (c) the distribution of affordable housing for low-income families. How do these mechanisms impact on the ethnic distribution of students among schools? Do they lead to ethnic segregation and do they jeopardize schools' role in the integration of ethnic minorities? (Contains 1 figure and 1 note.)