The children who have generally been termed "at-risk" are usually poor and often from other cultural backgrounds. Schools need to find ways to reach and involve at-risk families with their children's education. Steps include collaboration with other community agencies, helping parents identify what they are capable of doing, and respecting cultural differences. Guidelines, based on successful projects, include being and flexible, using strong personal outreach, holding the first activity away from school, preparing staff with inservice workshops, providing child care and transportation, and keeping up the effort. (10 references) (MLF)