The manual presents guidelines for developing a special education service delivery system that are flexible enough to accommodate individual needs of local education agencies (LEAs) in Minnesota. Following a general introduction, the manual is organized in three sections: (1) description of essential components in the special education system; (2) an internal evaluation and improvement process; (3) a planning process for special education change. Each section begins with an introduction which provides background information (e.g., purpose, scope, and implementation suggestions). The first two sections are structured according to 15 program components (each of which has a stated standard): identification, referral, assessment, individual program planning, instructional delivery/ programs, staff, physical plant, parent involvement/due process, personnel development, interagency cooperation, transportation, instructional resources, community relations, fiscal resources, and governance. The third section outlines a 10-step planning process for change: scan the environment, analyze conditions, develop planning assumptions, develop a mission statement, develop a statement of philosophy, review and analyze special education description and improvement data, formulate goals and objectives, obtain approval, implement plan, evaluate and adjust. Six appendices include the full text of the 15 program standards, a list of resources, and explanations of terms related to data collection and evaluation procedures. (JW)