The Connecticut State Incentives Project to Identify and Reward Exemplary Teaching began with a twofold purpose: first, to provide assistance to seven local districts in developing plans to identify and reward exemplary teaching, and second, to enable the Connecticut State Department of Education to share the common elements of these plans with districts throughout the state. In developing the district programs, specific activities were selected, based on the identified needs and purpose of the organization. Though these programs varied, common threads in their success were sincerity and trust. Three program components provide a framework for activities: (1) recognition component--activities which recognize all teachers as valued professionals and recognize exemplary teachers and/or specific achievements; (2) incentive component--activities and awards which encourage higher levels of effort toward personal and professional development; and (3) support component--activities which assist teachers in their continued pursuit of personal and professional development. These activities are outlined and the process of building an effective recognition and incentive program is described. Examples and characteristics of exemplary teaching are included in the appendices. (JD)