Without massive public intervention centering on the public schools, America will have a permanent underclass. This report of the Council of Great City Schools analyzes existing reports on educational reform and provides recommendations for improving urban schools. The report examines the following five key issues that urban schools will have to confront during the next few years: (1) educational achievement; (2) youth opportunities for enrollment in four-year postsecondary education degree programs, employment, and training; (3) community and parent involvement; (4) health care; and (5) buildings and facilities. Successful model public school programs are described, and elements they share are listed. Each of the top ten needs required to address the issues is discussed, and recommendations for meeting them are made. Appendices detail successful urban programs, describe the Council of the Great City Schools, and list the reports and statistical sources used. (BJV)