This paper describes a pilot project that investigated two key elements of the Teaching Skills Laboratory Network. The first of these was the use of a performance assessment instrument, and the second was the development of a teacher education database. In order to provide a contextual perspective, the discussion of these two items is prefaced by a brief overview of the origins and mission of the Center for Excellence in Education at Northern Arizona University. The pilot project was designed to determine whether a teacher observation instrument can be used effectively in a preservice program during the course work phase prior to student teaching, and also be used during the student teaching phase. The study sought to determine areas in which students tended to be relatively strong and relatively weak. The pilot sought to identify any emergent patterns during the acquisition of proficiency in teaching skills, and whether any students were "at risk" due to poor performance. It was hoped that clues would be found that would help tie preservice and inservice together in a way that would foster new partnerships between universities and public schools. (JD)