This handbook is designed to guide readers in developing a local assessment of the community's progress toward the National Education Goals. It is organized around those questions that the National Education Goals Panel has used to measure national and state progress in its 1991 report. Information in the introduction includes the history of the National Goals and Goal Reports, reasons why local communities should develop a local goals report, and the characteristics that reports should incorporate. Listed in the handbook are the various parts that make up the format of reports. The six goal sections begin with the actual wording of each goal, followed by its objectives. Next are the questions for each community to consider in developing a local goal report. Data useful in measuring attainment of the goal are presented next, followed by suggestions on how to gather similar data for local reports. Finally, at the end of each chapter is a list of sources and contacts that can provide more information on specific topics. This handbook serves as a starting point for the development of a clear vision of where the community stands in relation to achieving the six National Education Goals. (RR)