Setting Up Smaller Schools
Studies have shown that smaller schools increase student learning. They also lead to less violence and disruptive behavior, higher graduation rates, and increased student and teacher satisfaction. The reasons for this are varied. At least one factor is a more collegial feel among teachers who can work more closely and have the opportunity to form better relationships with students.
Opinions vary concerning the optimal size for schools. Some people believe that middle schools should be no larger than 400 to 500 students. The prescriptions for high schools range all the way from 300 to 1,500 students; most educators believe that between 600 and 1,000 students is a good number.
Funding is the problem in creating smaller schools. Unfortunately, many school districts do not have the money to build extra schools or divide huge campuses into smaller schools. Having a high school with 2,000, 4,000, or even 5,000 students is more cost-efficient than having several schools of 1,200 students each. When school districts do make the decision to create smaller schools, they often have to give up things such as music and enrichment classes. Making this choice is very difficult. Until funding methods change or people are willing to spend more in taxes to support schools, this will continue to be an issue.
