Research and practice have shown that staff development is the key to the successful implementation of any effective schools project. Staff development is defined as the ongoing, job-related, research-based activity provided for employees to maintain and improve their competencies. Part 1 of this paper outlines components (such as district-level support, adequate time, and followup activities) needed for successful staff development programs and describes the design of two such programs implemented in the Spencerport (New York) More Effective Schools/Teaching Project. The Teacher Expectations and Student Achievement program taught teachers to distribute 15 specific supportive and motivating behaviors equitably among students. The Essential Elements of Effective Instruction program assisted teachers in translating learning theories into teaching practices. Part 2 of the paper describes a plan for teaching key leaders throughout the district about the effective schools research implications and possibilities and for developing and implementing a master plan. The process involves (1) creating general awareness, knowledge, and understanding; (2) developing district-wide and building planning teams; (3) conducting a needs assessment; and (4) involving all faculty in the selection of school improvement teams. (IW)