The purpose of this article is to summarize what is generally known about talent development and schooling by stating some propositions about the way such programs are structured. This article sets the stage for a series of stories of programs that attempt to address the challenge of talent development in diverse low-income populations. The article has three parts. Part 1 contains statements illustrating the complexity of talent development. Part 2 analyzes models underlying the organization of schools. Part 3 presents implications for program development. Section headings in this article include: (1) The Complexity of Talent Development; (2) Models Underlying the Organization of Schools; and (3) Implications of the Complexity of Talent Development and Models of Schooling for Economically Disadvantaged Children. (Contains 1 table.)