Improving the quality of education is difficult today when many schools are experiencing a steady decline in student enrollment and financial resources. In such a climate it is increasingly important to stretch resources and adjust programs to provide for the diverse needs of all students. The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has developed a process model for reducing curriculum while maintaining the elements essential for educational quality. This guide for curricular analysis and decision-making is intended to give direction to principals and school communities in setting curricular priorities, making reductions, and finding alternatives. Since cutbacks in courses or programs are almost always controversial, great emphasis is placed on the quality and scope of information, the establishment of criteria, and the opportunity to hear all viewpoints. Course-rating sheets for students, departments, and committee members are appended to the guide. (Author/MLF)