Prepared by a state personnel management advisory committee, this document provides a guide to Oregon school districts in the employment, retraining, and retention of both certified and classified (support) staff. An introduction explains that district personnel management functions include determining need and selection, assignment, and orientation of new staff members, and that procedures and policies should be consistent with state and federal requirements (model policies are presented in the appropriate places in this publication). Sections covering recruitment and selection offer current data and recommendations for local programs, including recruitment techniques for small districts and building principals. The section on selection policy contains three subtopics: determining need, position description rationale, and filling vacancies. Areas considered in regard to vacancies include equal opportunity, vacancy announcements, gathering applicants' data, interviews, selection measures, assignment and certification, including certificate endorsements and certificate filing rules. In a separate section, personnel file regulations are described and a brief summary points out that recruitment and selection methods should be equitable, collaborative in decision making, reflect clearly formulated policies, and be continuously evaluated. Suggestions concerning assignment orientation are presented in selections from university educators and a citizens advisory committee. Recent findings about beginning teachers' problems and ways for districts to assist are briefly presented, and conclusions emphasize that employee selection is the beginning of personal and professional growth, which is the essential ingredient for continued improvement in the ability to educate children. Appendices provide 19 pages of sample position descriptions, vacancy announcements, and application forms. (CJH)