The following is an historically-based analysis of a new phenomenon affecting rural schools and communities: animal confinement operations. A contrast is made between "enclosure" as it unfolded in England a few centuries ago and the way animal concentration units constitute a second, "modern" form of enclosure today. In both…

Selected excerpts from books and poetry portray life in rural communities, the role of country schools, and the demands of farm life. These excerpts depict a nostalgic view of rural life that does not account for the current decline of rural communities. A move away from this stereotypical view is necessary to adapt to social change and preserve…

Interviews with 87 adolescents from farm and nonfarm families in rural New York revealed that farm adolescents were closer to their families, were more isolated from peers and peer-related activities, were less likely to pursue a college degree, and were unlikely to remain on the farm despite the positive aspects of farm life. Addresses…