Part 1 of a two-part publication, this guide presents newly revised standards for public schools prescribed by the Oregon Department of Education pursuant to Oregon law. The standards presented are legal requirements intended to insure that all Oregon students have access to a sound, comprehensive curriculum and to guide districts in qualifying for state basic school support. The guide includes related compliance indicators and commentary for each standard. The compliance indicators describe what the Oregon Department of Education will accept as evidence of compliance with each standard. The commentary is intended to provide insight into the state board's intent when adopting each standard and to reduce misinterpretations. The booklet includes brief sections on graduation requirements; curriculum requirements for basic skills, career education, special education, elementary schools, and secondary schools; general overall requirements for instruction, such as daily class size, required days of instruction, equal opportunities, personnel, and textbooks; and assessment and evaluation of individual students and the instructional program. A section on support programs deals with guidance and counseling, health services, emergency plans, operating policies, personnel policies, records and reports, and auxiliary services. Sections on implementation dates and administration conclude the guide. A companion document assists administrators in achieving compliance. (Author/JM)