The document provides a process model for a competency-based adult high school diploma program. Following an overview, the document is arranged into nine chapters. Chapter 1 focuses on starting such a program and gives suggestions for conducting needs assessment, setting up a planning group, implementing adult basic education awareness activities, and securing general community involvement. Chapter 2 provides a statement of philosophy, and chapter 3 considers the identification, rating, and organization of competencies. In chapter 4, a description is given of the characteristics, organization, content, strategies, and delivery of instruction. Chapter 5 provides a discussion of the purposes, characteristics, techniques, and administration of learner assessment. In chapter 6, suggestions are given for selecting, adapting, and developing competency-based education materials. While the focus of chapter 7 is on program evaluation, chapter 8 focuses on the evaluation of staff development. The final chapter presents additional questions and answers concerning competency-based education. This document was selected by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Task Force on Public Confidence as descriptive of a promising practice or exemplary project worthy of highlighting for the California educational community. (LH)