Skills required for developing staff evaluation models are closely linked to skills required for staff development. Leading a vital, growing, innovative, dynamic school system requires risk-taking, stretching, painful, exhilarating change. This change is accomplished through staff development. Real staff development is not confined to one or two in-service days when the faculty listens to a motivating speaker, attends a show and tell workshop, and chats with co-workers over coffee and danish. Staff development that promotes true school improvement demands thoughtful, long-term planning; commitment to specific goals; and the same tender nurturing from administration that is required in guiding a child through adolescence. To do this, administrators need the ability to: conduct system and staff needs assessment to identify areas for concentrated staff development and resource allocation for new personnel. (22 references) (Author)