This report synthesizes the experience-based ideas that emerged from small group interaction at the 16th annual Montana Rural Education Conference, which focused on the pros and cons of school district consolidation. Conferees first heard from panelists and speakers expressing a spectrum of positive and negative positions on the consolidation issue, and then divided into seven small, heterogeneous groups. Four attitudes were expressed by numerous individuals and through consensus across at least three of the seven groups. These were: (1) voluntary consolidation was not viewed with great opposition, but forced consolidation was abhorred; (2) there was strong identification with local control of local schools; (3) regional consolidation of educational services offers potential for better use of limited financial resources and improved operational efficiency; and (4) education is more than a function of cost. The report expands upon each of these topics and also delineates other suggestions that were put forth by only one or two groups or several individuals. The majority of conferees seemed receptive to positive merits of restructuring Montana's schools as long as the element of local control remains vital and changes are made incrementally and are well monitored throughout implementation. The small group interaction activity sheet used at the conference is appended. (RAH)