This publication is divided into two parts. The first part, "Study Abroad for High School Age Youth: Status, Purposes, and Proposed Directions," is by Stephen H. Rhinesmith. This article describes the status of study abroad programs in secondary education, discusses the purposes of such study, and proposes directions for future developments that will help educate more internationally sensitive Americans. The second part of the document, "Assessing Study Abroad Programs: A Guide for Local School Districts," by Helene Z. Loew treats guidelines for assessment of programs. Included are sections on information disclosure by sponsoring agencies; recommended insurance coverage; criteria for selection of leaders, chaperones, faculty, staff, and students; academic standards; facilities and accommodations abroad; and suggestions for program evaluation. Appendices include a sample preliminary application, a personal reference form, suggestions for student preparation, a postexchange questionnaire and evaluation form, the International Communication Agency criteria for teenager exchange visitor programs, and selected references. (Author/AMH)