This report focuses upon the efforts of public school educators and administrators in Washington, D.C., to improve teaching and learning through a comprehensive educational plan. One of the goals in this plan was defined as the promotion of academic excellence for the attainment of knowledge, competencies, and skills. Special education projects undertaken or expanded in an effort to meet this goal included programs for the handicapped, bilingual education programs, career development, environmental education, and special programs for talented and gifted students. A systematic plan for the continuous assessment and evaluation of educational needs and achievement was also a goal of the plan, as was the improvement of service and efficiency of operations in the major support areas of management services. Also discussed here are public relations and communications issues, and labor and equal employment concerns. A major focus of the plan consisted of ensuring the active participation of all components of the Washington public schools in the implementation of systemwide competency based curriculum. Activities and materials designed to bring this about are described. (GC)