These guidelines have been designed to support and upgrade English as a field of study and to suggest certain standards, approaches, and materials that will strengthen junior and senior high school English departments. The guidelines deal with several areas that have relevance for English instruction: philosophy; curriculum and instruction (general matters and specific skill areas); teacher working conditions; desirable support services; department chair (selection and duties); department operation; departmental budget; policies regarding controversial matters; and teachers' professional growth and participation in professional organizations. An appendix lists books that may be helpful in the development of the English curriculum. (GW)