The Michigan Department of Education defines professional development as a planned and organized effort to provide teachers and other educational workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate improved student learning and performance. The purpose of this paper is to provide a rationale and plan for professional development programs funded by the State of Michigan. Types of educational activities intended to foster staff improvement are listed, including graduate level programs and the provision of higher education institution resources, local inservice activities, and state department sponsored professional development activities. Linkages among these various levels are absolutely essential. (Author)