This was a comparative research project designed to identify factors and variables important for the implementation of a substance abuse program within the rural setting in Kansas. There were several areas of particular interest drawn from the training process and from prevention literature: perceptions of the training received during the summer institute; obstacles encountered at any point of the implementation process; types of programming implemented; and the ways in which the core group, community, students, and parents were able to work together. For the purposes of comparison, the schools were selected by examining statistical analyses from student self-report surveys conducted before the training and at the end of the first year following training. In an attempt to identify common themes in the interviews, the interview content was examined within groups and across groups by school. Schools were compared to identify recurring themes common to both schools. One common theme was that a solid knowledge base in substance abuse prevention is necessary for effective program implementation. Another theme is that successful prevention efforts will require a considerable commitment of time, energy, and financial resources. Other common themes are that support from decisionmakers is necessary; rural communities condone the use of alcohol and, to some extent tobacco, at all ages; and schools have been entrusted with the responsibility for prevention efforts. Several implications pertinent to the implementation of substance abuse programs are drawn from the study results. 1 table, 34 references, and appended interview questions