In response to the National Commission on Excellence in Education Report, the McHenry Community High School District in Illinois analyzed its current high school programs. The analysis is presented under five areas: (1) instructional programs; (2) student services; (3) district planning, facility, and fiscal programs; (4) athletic and cocurricular programs; and (5) community service programs. The strengths of the programs were studied to avoid recreating components where excellence already exists. An action plan for achieving excellence, with short-range and long-range recommendations, is included in the report. The short-range recommendations are to (1) uprade graduation requirements, (2) increase the level of student mastery of basic skills, (3) improve textbook and curriculum selection, and (4) increase homework assignments. The long-range recommendations are to (1) increase and encourage staff development, (2) determine the effectiveness of departmental structures, (3) study differentiated graduation requirements, (4) improve the image of academic programs, (5) improve program planning and articulation, (6) assess the potential for development of sequential courses for gifted students, (7) develop a greater linkage with local business and industry, and (8) develop a 5-year plan for integrating microcumputers into the educational program. Included is a study of credits earned by the 1983 graduating class. (MD)