A model, appropriate for small and rural schools, offers an alternative to consolidation. Through its use, four Minnesota school districts have retained aspects of local school tradition and have provided improved educational opportunities to their high school students. (CM)

Describes the National Science Foundation's Appalachian Rural Systemic Initiative (ARSI) to improve student performance in mathematics, science, and technology in 66 Appalachian counties. Discusses ARSI's principles of systemic change; the individual school as the unit of change; and ARSI activities in four areas: catalyst school and teacher…