Whether you teach in a large comprehensive school that is restructuring into multiple small schools, or an already small school, you and your colleagues know that there are many benefits of small schools. But small size is not enough to guarantee a good school or increased student achievement.
Teachers in successful small schools work with their colleagues in adult learning communities in order to look at student work and examine their classroom practice.
Teachers in successful small schools challenge students with rigorous authentic work, which research shows can lead to higher test scores. Teachers also work hard to achieve a focused, coherent instructional program, which can also lead to higher gains in student achievement.
To support you in your efforts to examine classroom practice within a small school context, the Small Schools Project researched programs, interviewed teachers, and visited schools around the country to collect promising teaching and learning resources. You'll find web-based resources, school profiles, sample classroom activities, professional development options, and recommended readings.
The following categoriesrepresent a wide range of resources for high school educators that can serve as the basis for conversations about school culture, new directions for classroom practice, and your professional development plan.
These resources were sent to Washington high schools that received reinvention grants from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. You can access the Planning Resource Guides on-line and download them for free, or you can order a bound copy using our publications order form.
