Analyzes interdisciplinary research and theory relating to group dynamics in terms of implications for small school leadership. Demonstrates the transferability of research and theory from sociology, psychology, and business management to educational administration. (Author/ABB)

Gives 1986 National Rural and Small Schools Consortium Conference definitions for rural school district, small school district, and remote/isolated school, providing common terms for communicating with legislators, federal/state policymakers, and researchers. Emphasizes "ruralness" as a continuum affected by the interaction of…

A humorous examination of research on effects of institution size on pupil progress reveals evidentiary and inferential errors, naivete, intellectual puritanism, and rational extravagance. Revised, reinterpreted, and confirmed by two new studies, the literature shows a near-unanimous finding: the smaller unit definitely is superior to the larger…

A systematic 13-step approach to curriculum study and revision for small school districts is offered that involves appointing a committee, deciding on an overall program, narrowing choices, evaluating and selecting materials, revising materials to fit local goals, invervice training for teachers, and reevaluation. (TE)

A growing body of evidence points to the size of schools as a significant determining factor in academic achievement. Large schools are often far less successful at educating students than small schools. This paper shall first examine the data which support this claim and the reasons why small schools might work better. Finally, our conclusions…

Critiquing arguments from the "small school" movement in cities such as New York and Chicago, this paper provides a basis for making sense of the apparent divergence in policies governing schooling structures in rural and urban places. Its interpretation examines the way the urban small schools movement works to valorize (and hence draw support…

This report includes observations from the first year of a three-year study of seven small high schools (that exist in converted comprehensive high schools) in Washington State. It discusses the unique characteristics of professional communities that are emerging and examines how these communities are changing teachers expectations for their…

A small Toronto school found a ready solution to the task of manual scheduling through the use of a computer service utlity. (Author/JN)

In one year Malta High, in Northern Illinois, a school of approximately 125 students, expanded its course offerings from 51 to 153 -- and remained solvent. (Author)

Results of a Colorado survey seem to indicate that principals from both large and small school districts have similar hiring interests and needs in the hiring process of teachers. Suggests teachers would be wise to prepare to teach more than one subject and pay particular attention to their letters of recommendation, resumes, and interview skills.…

Looks at arguments for and against school consolidation which fall within the concerns of economic efficiency and size. Suggests a need to consider the effects of consolidation on the communities served by the schools. (AH)

Provides suggestions for selection and use of media equipment and material. Tabular displays include an instructional design model, a media classifications layout, and a specifications chart. (AN)

The article describes both the advantages and disadvantages of living and teaching in a remote rural area, where the teacher must function as both teacher and janitor. (SB)

Lists the strengths of small schools and offers hints to improve the educational program in small schools. (JM)

Small schools (300 to 400 students) offer a real panacea for America's educational ills. New York City's celebrated Central Park East schools lack separate buildings, but have the climate and culture for developing democratic habits of heart and mind. Smallness can facilitate governance, respect, simplicity, safety, parent involvement,…