Benefits of Small
Research on the effects of school size on student achievement and well-being is extensive. It spans the political spectrum and is unusually consistent in its findings that smaller-sized schools and school districts benefit students, especially students who are at risk for educational difficulties, teachers, and the community. Research is opulent in supporting smaller, neighborhood schools (less than 400 students) over larger schools.
"Researchers found that student achievement was greater in the smaller schools than in the larger schools. Students, parents, teachers, and community volunteers reported greater satisfaction because they felt more connected to one another." ~ Education World.
The climate in smaller schools builds closer relationships between adults and students, especially the students themselves. It is difficult to be abusive to others whom you know and value. As a result, students feel more engaged with the school community, and these close relationships are accompanied by greater mutual respect toward one another. Researchers found that school connectedness is strongest in schools where students know each other more personally and get along with each other better.
Bigger is not always better. “Effective characteristics of small schools can be lost even in small schools if school leaders chase the illusion that bigger is better.” ~ Lorna Jimerson, Ed.D Research shows students thrive and achieve more in smaller schools. The longer students are exposed to small class sizes, the more they maintain their academic advantage. Small schools are frequently the glue that binds together small communities, serving as their economic and social hub.
Smallness impacts educators as well as students. Small schools are places where teachers have a stronger sense of professional community and more opportunities for working as a team. Research shows that an increase in teacher morale is linked to increased student learning. Smallness is associated with teachers having more autonomy and initiating innovative reforms.
Research-based reasons why small works
There is greater participation in extra-curricular activities which is linked to academic success
Small schools are safer
Small schools found fewer bullying incidents
Lower rates of crime and violence
More attention to student mental and emotional health and awareness
Less student misbehavior and discipline problems
Kids feel they belong
Smaller class size allows for more individualized instruction
Good teaching methods are easier to implement
Teachers feel better about their work and more satisfied with their positions
Teachers have less absenteeism
Teachers collaborate more with colleagues
Teachers take greater responsibility for student learning
Small schools have higher teacher retention rates
Higher quality of teacher instruction and student learning
Mixed-ability classes support students in their learning needs
Greater academic success
Produce high student graduation rates regardless of socio-economic status
Multi-age classes promote personalized learning and encourage positive social interactions
More grades in one school alleviate many problems of transitions to new schools
Greater parent involvement and community support
Lower transportation costs
Smaller schools allocate 26 percent more space to each student
Schools of 138–600 students were no more expensive per student to build than 601–999 students
“Research also indicates that smaller schools perform better when they are in small districts than when they are part of larger districts, and even larger schools perform better in smaller districts than in larger ones… Evidence suggests that these larger governance structures are detrimental to advancing student learning.” ~The Hobbit Effect.
Schools reflect the communities where they are located. “Smaller communities are generally places that naturally result in close interpersonal connections, where individuals know, share with, and care for each other. Smaller schools mirror these qualities and reduce student alienation and teacher isolation. Attributes such as students’ sense of belonging, school safety, and teacher morale are closely linked to the quality of interpersonal relationships found in small schools and small communities.” ~ Lorna Jimerson, Ed.D
Orem is a wonderful small community with great families and businesses. Orem City is Family City, USA. Our children, families, schools, community, and businesses bring a sense of belonging and fellowship that many other communities long to have. Let’s give our children and teachers the opportunity to excel and achieve in an Orem School District. Vote Yes on Prop 2.
RESOURCE LINKS:
New School District Comprehensive Feasibility Study for the City of Orem (pages 18, 214, 206, 260)
Holden Rural Academy - Hobbit Effect Part 6