The purpose of this handbook is to guide rural school districts intending to establish a preschool program. The program described was established in the Trimble Local School District in the rural Appalachian area of northern Athens County, the third poorest district in Ohio. Contents concern: (1) the district's beliefs about children; (2) curriculum; (3) parent education; (4) preparation for a preschool program; (5) the program itself; (6) assessment; and (7) the selection of books for children and staff. The curriculum is discussed in terms of the importance of play in the preschool classroom, blocks, reading and language skills, mathematics, art, science, and music and movement. Preparation for the program is discussed in relation to needs assessment, registration, the time line, selection of children to be served, the ratio of children to teacher or aide, and the physical setting and organization of the classroom. Discussed components of the program include the daily schedule, key activities, the role of the aide, parent involvement, and the use of videotapes. Assessment is discussed in terms of assessment of the child, a preschool parent questionnaire, and program improvement. Lists of books of interest and selection criteria are offered. Resources are listed, and an orientation manual, observation form, and questionnaire are provided in appendices. (RH)