This report tells the stories of nine urban elementary schools that served children of color in poor communities and achieved impressive academic results. All of the schools used federal Title I dollars to create Title I schoolwide programs. In these schools, many important change efforts were enhanced through Title I education resources. Though Title I supported the change efforts, however, it was not the catalyst for change. The true catalyst was the strong desire of educators to ensure academic success for all students. Teams of researchers visited the schools to interview campus and district administrators, teachers, parents, and other school personnel. They observed classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and meetings. They also reviewed school documents and achievement data. Results indicated that the schools were different in important ways. The differences suggest that many urban elementary schools serving poor communities can achieve high levels of student achievement, with successes being achieved through different means. There were also important similarities. The report presents findings and recommendations based on the findings. (SM)