An effective staff development program for rural teachers will have identified the needs to be met, will incorporate good management principles, and will make use of a variety of resources--the community itself, nonprofessional staff, business and industry, and shared teaching efforts. Distinctive staff development needs of rural teachers may include obtaining specialized teaching resources; mastering use of "high-tech" innovations; integrating rural-focused content into curricula; securing funding and equipment; involving the community; relating with parents, peer professionals, and community members; and providing for special need students. Good staff development programs should incorporate a broad definition of staff development, ensure that relevant personnel at all levels are trained, develop partnerships to secure additional resources, and use low cost or free staff development tools. Effective rural staff development practices are use of system-wide models, use of specific technological appproaches to meet special needs, and focus on individual teacher needs. A variety of rural staff development resources including journals, reports, reviews, and inservice modules are available through the ERIC Clearinghouse on Rural Education and Small Schools, Rural Education Association, American Council on Rural Special Education, and National Rural Development Institute. Addressess and publications/services of these agencies are provided. (NEC)