A Pre-K–First-Grade Program in Appalachia

Anne Monterosso writes that Belpre, Ohio, is a small community located on the edge of the Ohio River in the Appalachian region. She describes a school faced with meeting federal mandates and state assessments and at the same time making adjustments because of declining enrollment. The teachers at the school are dedicated and hardworking professionals who work together to implement sound educational practices in a unique setting.

Rural schools across the United States are struggling with declining enrollment and the increased costs of operating schools. Many small rural schools will be forced to close their doors in the future unless changes are made to support small schools. Read the article below to learn more about the crisis in the rural classroom and what research says about small schools and quality instruction.

Crisis in the Rural Classroom
http://www.smallschoolsworkshop.org/baltsun072502mbowler.html