A research project conducted from July 1974 through June 1976 to develop more comprehensive State-local planning for curriculum development, work-experience programs, and programs for the disadvantaged and handicapped was designed to coordinate total planning activities from the Kansas State Department of Education to the local classroom level. A regional service unit was established to serve nine counties in economically depressed southeast Kansas and a needs assessment was made to determine educational shortcomings. Manpower needs data were gathered from employers in the nine-county area, as well as data on vocational curriculum interests from students, parents, and school staffs. Study findings revealed that educators at all levels and many area employers were actively involved in the project. As a result of regional cooperative planning local schools increased their proposals for innovative projects, inservice training needs were pinpointed, and the role of career education in all aspects of education was demonstrated. The regional service unit conducted inservice workshops on career and special education and on vocational curriculum development. Study findings are detailed in the report, and materials related to the occupational survey, inservice workshops, evaluation, and proposed plans are appended. (MF)