Noting that Alberta's education system must focus on what all students need to learn in order for them to participate in an economy and a society undergoing fundamental changes, this handbook reflects the initiatives and directions outlined in the business plan for the future of education in Alberta. All changes to Alberta Education requirements contained in this document are effective the first day of the 1995-96 school year. The guide serves to: (1) identify program requirements specified by Alberta Education; (2) provide information about learning expectations, education delivery, and achievement standards for students enrolled in senior high schools; and (3) communicate information useful in organizing and operating senior high schools to meet the needs of students. The Mission and Mandate section of the handbook defines basic education, addresses the learning expectation for senior high school students, and describes the graduation requirements students will need to meet over the course of their senior high school education. The section Program Planning discusses senior high school programming and information regarding various courses and programs. The Program Administration section describes: (1) the School Act; (2) the Alberta Education Policy Regulations and Forms Manual; (4) guides to education and bulletins; (5) instructional delivery; (6) course credits; (7) student placement and promotion; (8) student achievement in senior high school subjects; and (9) special provisions. The last section, Resources and Services, lists and describes learning resources for students and teachers, and includes significant addresses. (BAC)