Guidelines to aid in formulating a workable career guidance program at the local level are provided in a handbook for Massachusetts counselors and educators. An overview of the handbook and a position paper of the State Board of Education are presented in chapter 1. The next five chapters discuss (1) program planning and development; (2) school and community resources; (3) laws, regulations, and policies; (4) career guidance techniques; and (5) work exploration and placement. Chapter 2 contains an outline for planning and developing a career guidance program: the planning process (an overview), needs assessment, setting objectives, evaluation, and follow-up. Chapter 3 provides methods and programs for organizing and using school and community resources, including developing a resource directory, career guidance resources, career resource centers, and communicating with the public. Chapter 4 deals with federal and state laws and regulations related to youth employment and to equal educational opportunity and affirmative action. Three areas of career guidance techniques are addressed in chapter 5: group activities, assessment instruments, and computer uses. Chapter 6 provides information to help students test out and acquire actual job experiences and prepare for placement. Topics include labor market overview, work experience, apprenticeship, and job and postsecondary school placement. (YLB)