A nationwide study of 20 outstanding student services programs examined the techniques and features of positive, progressive, and innovative programs in small and large school systems. Reviews and previews of pupil services indicate the broadening of school programs into community service and preventative mental health programs. Personnel in excellent programs focused on providing a "best fit" for all pupils, helping the troubled learner, cooperating with families and communities, educating for better mental health, and preparing children to assume responsibility. The operant functions included services for pupil admission and placement, pupil progress monitoring, child study, guidance, counseling, remedial and special help, staff consultation, parent consultation, and research and experimentation. Organization and staffing patterns were marked by exceptional key administrators, coordinated departments with well-defined lines of authority and responsibility, and good job descriptions for student services personnel. Several models and titles of departmental organizations based on line-and-staff concepts are presented, along with specialist titles, staffing guidelines, and job descriptions of pupil personnel specialists in schools in Port Chester, New York. (WR)