School jurisdiction plans and reports align with and build on Alberta Education's vision, mission, goals and outcomes for the basic education system. They help ensure that the entire learning system is focused on key priorities that meet the educational needs of Alberta students. At the same time, jurisdiction plans and reports incorporate local goals, priorities and outcomes that reflect the unique characteristics and circumstances of their communities. In short, they reflect local needs and priorities within the context of a province-wide framework. Accountability in the basic education system is an ongoing cycle that enables continuous improvement and critical reflection. Key components are measuring progress and using results to inform decision making. For school authorities, the cycle involves: (1) developing plans aligned with provincial goals and outcomes; (2) incorporating community input; (3) identifying and implementing strategies to improve student learning; (4) allocating resources to achieve goals and improve results; (5) monitoring progress; (6) measuring and assessing results; (7) using results to identify priorities and design or adjust strategies; and (8) communicating with stakeholders (staff, learners, parents, school councils, the public, and Alberta Education) about school jurisdiction and school plans and results. This guide provides information on the components and requirements of education plans and on preparing, updating, communicating, submitting and reviewing them. It also provides an overview of the result reporting components and requirements. Appendices include information on performance measurement, measuring performance through surveys, and setting targets, and provide a sample format for school board plans. [This report was produced by Alberta Education.]