Examined data on rural, public, one-teacher schools. Surveys of one-room school teachers and information from national databases indicated that existing schools were amply staffed with qualified, experienced teachers. Community support was high. Students did well, with few discipline problems. There was a significant drop in numbers of schools…

Traces decline of one-room schools from 24,000 in 1959 to about 840 today. Reports findings from 1984 survey of 643 surviving one-room schools in Nebraska, Montana, South Dakota, California, and Wyoming. Includes data on enrollments, teacher qualifications and responsibilities, student achievement, and school facilities/equipment. (NEC)