This guidance offers a renewed vision for the use of the schoolwide program, both as a reform strategy and as a means of realizing the high standards for student achievement envisioned by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). It is intended to be used as a companion document to the statute and regulations, as well as a technical assistance resource. The guidance is organized in three major sections: the comprehensive needs assessment, the comprehensive plan, and the annual program evaluation. The first section suggests a process for organizing and conducting the needs assessment. It also discusses planning in general, not only as the prerequisite to change and reform, but also as an ongoing and transparent activity that must be used throughout all aspects of schoolwide program implementation. The second section addresses the development of the comprehensive plan and its required components, emphasizing the importance of involving all key stakeholders. The third describes a strategic approach to the required evaluation of the program, which loops back to the planning component. Each begins with a brief discussion followed by a more detailed explanation of specific program requirements. Research-based principles and practical approaches for implementation are also included, and each section ends with questions and answers on specific topics, as needed. The following are appended: (1) Additional Questions and Answers; (2) Bibliographic References; (3) Web-Based Resources; (4) Schoolwide Planning Team Members/Roles; (5) Assessment of School Progress Toward Schoolwide Improvement; (6) Indicators for the School Profile; (7) Data Collection Guide; and (8) Finalizing the Schoolwide Plan - A Rubric for Monitoring and Evaluation.