The education service districts (ESDs) in Oregon have been a strong force for staff development since 1849, a decade before statehood. This report outlines the organization of Oregon school systems over the past century, highlighting the creation of county superintendents, rural school districts, special education programs, and tax standards enacted in 1977 and 1979. The 1981 legislative session further amended the ESD budgetary and levying authority by limiting its tax levy to a 6 percent yearly increase. (Provision was made for an increased special levy for handicapped, bilingual, and other special programs.) The 1983 Oregon Action Plan states that "local school districts shall develop and implement staff development programs related to district evaluation systems and school improvement plans." Oregon Public School Standard 606 requires that local districts provide appropriate staff development activities related to program improvement, and Standard 715 also requires districts to have staff development policies and and plans. Other relevant statutes, requirements, and enforcement measures are briefly discussed. Current statutes authorize the Oregon Board of Education to eliminate noncomplying ESDs via merger with an adjoining ESD meeting the standard. The 1987 legislature provided $5.4 million in local school district grants to provide assistance to beginning teachers through mentorships and to stimulate school improvement and professional development. The Oregon Department of Education also provides mentor training and technical assistance. The department also provided 1988 funding for consortia, professional development centers, and ESD Association motivating activities. (MLH)