For education policies to be implemented most effectively in local contexts, policymakers must consider diverse school and community geographic characteristics. For example, rural geographies often present particularly important dynamics for public schooling, including challenges with school enrollment, school funding, and teacher labor markets.…

Special education teachers, through a national survey conducted in 55 rural districts, provided information on the positive and negative aspects of teaching in rural schools. The 203 special educators were asked what they liked best about their position and what they found challenging. Some of the themes identified in the analysis centered on…

A nationwide assessment of perceived needs for improvement in smaller schools provided some serendipitous insight into reasons for less than ideal relationships between teachers and administrators. Although rankings within groups varied somewhat, there were seven areas of need recognized by both teachers and administrators. Collaboration and…

Reports on a 1983-84 nationwide descriptive study of K-12 and one-12 rural school districts enrolling 300 students or less done to provide educators with needed information on the status of the very small school district. Highlights findings on rural districts, superintendents, teachers, student performance, and school programs. (BRR)

Reviews the unique financial problems of small schools. Explains the necessarily higher cost per pupil of quality rural education programs. Summarizes survey results concerning 48 states' use of weighted funding formulas, categorical aid for transportation, and excess levy authority to provide supplemental funds to small schools or districts.…