In fall 1997, Congress approved funding to implement Comprehensive School Reform Demonstration (CSRD) programs, primarily in Title I schools in high-poverty areas. This digest explains CSRD and what it might mean to rural schools. Since 1965, Title I has provided resources to at-risk children in lower-income schools. Changes in 1988 and 1994 broadened Title I by supporting "schoolwide" projects, while the 1997 CSRD legislation lays out criteria by which schools may select research-based reform models or develop their own strategies. In October 1998, Congress provided 2 more years of CSRD funding, including funds for technical assistance and field studies on the impact of various CSRD models on student achievement. Criteria for CSRD programs are listed. Field research on whole-school reform suggests that schoolwide projects increase achievement gains by at-risk students. Studies identify strategies that increase program effectiveness, as well as barriers to reform implementation and sustainability. CSRD requirements suggest that quality technical assistance will be a vital consideration for small and rural schools with scarce resources. CSRD is supported by active involvement of outside experts who aid educators with the details of real-life problems and challenges of reform. While it remains to be seen how federal and state officials interpret CSRD criteria, rural schools have opportunities to craft schoolwide reforms that fit local needs. (Contains 15 references.) (SV)