During 1985-86, its first year, the Comprehensive School Improvement and Planning process (CSIP) operated in 156 of 392 New York City schools identified by the State Education Department's Comprehensive Assessment Report (CAR) as most in need of improvement. CSIP offers a holistic approach to school improvement and planning, and is designed to meet the rigorous guidelines for school improvement established in the CAR, as well as the Chancellor's Implementation Plan for Schools in Need of Assistance. The primary goal for the first year was for each school to submit a written, three-year plan presenting specific goals and activities designed to improve students' academic performance and the school's climate. Individual schools formed committees to write these plans, and CSIP facilitators assisted these committees in analyzing data, identifying problems, conducting surveys, and developing solutions. In general CSIP met its objectives. However, the programs had varying degrees of impact and acceptance across sites. The following recommendations are made: (1) principals and other staff should be made to realize that their commitment and participation is necessary for the success of CSIP; (2) planning committee members should have a common meeting during school hours, at least once a week; and (3) a program coordinator should be appointed. An appendix lists the chancellor's minimum standards for elementary, middle, and secondary schools. (BJV)