This document provides a framework for better understanding of the knowledge and skills essential to a state level position within special education. It was developed with an eye on essential skills and knowledge for carrying out the general supervision/leadership requirements of the state education agency (SEA) specifically as it related to special education. The focus is on gaining an understanding about general supervision from a leadership rather than a compliance perspective. The content begins with a definition of general supervision that encompasses leadership and then moves to a discussion about leadership. The next section discusses critical leadership skills, including creating partnerships, running effective meetings, managing conflict, facilitating effective communication, and using technology. The following section describes the regulatory content about which an SEA staff person must be knowledgeable, including regulations dealing with general assurance, identification, operational procedures, quality personnel, school improvement, public input, and finance. The final section provides resources available to assist SEA staff persons in improving their effectiveness. Appendices include information about the Mountain Plans Regional Resource Center and the Office of Special Education Programs Technical Assistance and Dissemination Network. (Contains 24 references.) (CR)