These guidelines have been written for use in implementing the Local Planning and Assessment Process (LPAP). The information is based on field development and experience with local school districts. The four major sections of the manual provide the information necessary for local planners to move from a basic awareness regarding the LPAP to a significant level of operational knowledge. Section 1 provides an overall picture of the operation of LPAP and examines some key points to consider in each phase of the process. Section 2 uses a sequence of basic tasks as a framework in which references are made to resources, alternative techniques, and other factors to consider in building a customized planning and assessment model. Section 3 presents a simulated model that uses the information in Section 2 to develop a sequence of activities that incorporates timelines and personnel as they might be employed by a local district. Section 4 provides direction and formats for the reporting of LPAP activities to the Rhode Island Department of Education. Reports submitted according to these formats satisfy the information requirements outlined in the provisional regulations for the LPAP. (Author/IRT)