This publication reports the results of a doctoral dissertation which sought to develop guidelines for organizing, operating, and administering prevocational education programs. The guidelines were developed from questionnaires returned by 70 directors of local occupational orientation and exploration programs, a review of related literature, and an inventory of common program areas submitted to a jury of experts, who indicated the relative importance of each. The resulting guidelines cover: (1) Program Objectives, (2) Program Design, (3) Instructional Staff Selection, (4) Grade Level of Student Involvement, (5) Staff Training, (6) Program Financing, (7) Curriculum and Activities, (8) Community Involvement, (9) Student Selection, (10) Facilities and Equipment, (11) Guidance and Counseling Services, (12) Administration and Supervision, and (13) Program Evaluation. The complete Ph.D. dissertation is announced as ED 042 926. (SB)