The CSA project works through three strategic objectives. Each of the objectives is achieved through 'best practice' sub-objectives. CSA activities are designed to produce a measurable, positive change in each sub-objective. The three strategic objectives and corresponding sub-objectives are as follows:

Increased community awareness, responsibility and advocacy for education.

• Build trust in the community (school system and teachers).
• Respond to interests/concerns of school.
• Provide culturally sensitive approach to education.
• Support quality education.
• Support girls'/boys' education (home and school).

• Empower local people to act.
• Define roles and responsibilities of partners.
• Strengthen school management structures.
• Develop productive links to education/government authorities.
• Develop productive links to external agencies.

Enhanced community participation in design, implementation/monitoring of school improvement efforts.

• Utilize participatory planning and design.
• Mobilize local and district resources.
• Monitor school performance.
• Monitor school finances and assets.
• Develop community leadership and ownership.

The 'best practice' sub-objectives were developed by the CSA team based on the 'best practices' included in the publication, Involving Communities: Participation in the Delivery of Education Programs, prepared by Andrea Rugh and Heather Bossert, Creative Associates International, ABEL Project Consortium, USAID, Washington DC, 1998. The report contained a summary of 'best practices' compiled from six USAID sponsored projects worldwide.