In an effort to improve the quality of its educational systems, Florida mandated participation in a year-long Beginning Teacher Program (BTP) as a requisite for regular certification of beginning teachers. The support system of the program consists of regular formative and summative assessments of the teacher's performance, and the provision of instruction in targeted need areas and the assignment of relevant learning activities. The evaluation of Dade County's Beginning Teacher Program's first operational year was conducted to examine the appropriateness and effectiveness of major program elements. Data were obtained to determine whether the required program activities occurred; whether the activities occurred in the manner prescribed by district and state quidelines; and whether the program had an overall favorable impact upon the beginning teachers with regard to their performance on 23 generic teaching competencies. Overall, the evaluation findings indicated that the assessment and instructional components of the BTP were implemented, primarily through the efforts of building-level administrators and peer teachers, and with a degree of success. Generally, perceptions regarding the contributions of the program were favorable. Most beginning teachers and support team members perceived that the program was effective and contributed positively to their professional development. (BW)