This guide, one of three units in the Colorado state plan for guidance program development, is written for educators as both a guideline and a needs assessment instrument to assist in the identification of deficit areas in school guidance programs. In a beginning section, this unit for grades 7-12 provides a brief philosophy of guidance and definitions of commonly used terms, (e.g., guidance, counseling, career education). The three areas covered by the state plan are presented and include: (1) program components (guidance, counseling, appraisal, information and referral, placement, and budget, staff, facilities); (2) student outcomes in 12 areas (e.g., goal setting, responsibility, conflict resolution and negotiation skills); and (3) use of resources (business, industry, community). The format of the guide is a series of charts which present either goals and objectives, and sections for recording current activities and the strengths and weaknesses of the current program (Program Components section); or suggested activities/topics and space for marking current practice at each grade level (Student Outcomes section). The Use of Resources section lists suggestions for a resource file. The appendices provide program planning sheets, the statement of purpose and membership list for the Colorado Advisory Council for Guidance, Counseling and Placement, an outline of occupational clusters, and selected criteria for the accreditation of Colorado school districts, 1980. (BL)