This is the first in a series of final reports to the Office of Education on the Northeastern EPDA/PPS Center-Satellite Project. This multi-year, multi-institutional project was an attempt to redesign the training of pupil personnel specialists for the schools through preservice training for entry-level personnel and pre- or inservice training for faculty, and to improve the modes for the delivery of services in five urban settings. Project activities encompass: (1) a center demonstration component, (2) five satellite projects, and (3) a set of supporting staff and program development activities sponsored by the center. This report explicates the several dimensions of this complex educational personnel development venture, and serves as a "Gestalt" for viewing the total project. It draws heavily on the many documents, reports, and plans of operation already generated by the project. The authors emphasize the strategies and processes of the center and its components. The satellite project reports are not presented in this document but will be forthcoming at a later date. (Author/PC)