Offers a summary of the first pastoral letter of the black bishops of the United States, "What We Have Seen and Heard." Sees the Catholic schools representing an opportunity for quality education and character development to many in the black community. (DMM)

Presents the history and focus of the Urban Community School (UCS), an alternative community school in Cleveland, Ohio. Highlights innovative programs to address such issues as racial diversity, alternatives to violence and gender bias. Discusses funding sources in terms of UCS' growing budget and sliding scale tuition rates. (BCY)

Although often ignored by policymakers, African-American independent neighborhood schools provide models of successful learning environments grounded in cultural history and the pursuit of excellence. These schools are usually urban and mostly minority and have a long tradition of self-help providing stability to the African-American community.…

Describes the objectives of a proposal to create two Catholic "base community" schools in Hispanic communities in Chicago, which will allow parents full participation and infuse neighborhoods with hope. Discusses several broad assumptions about the role of the schools and steps to ensure schools are products of the community. (BCY)

Considers the implications of statistics on death and poverty in minority communities for Catholic high schools with large minority populations. Sees hope at the heart of the Catholic high school. Discusses how teachers, school climate, and careful curriculum design can help instill this hope in the students. (DMM)