Letter to Oregonian on school size
Here is a letter I wrote to the Oregonian in February 2004:
Thanks very much for your article on Deborah Meier and small schools. While the article focused on creating smaller high schools, it's important to note that the benefits of small schools are equally evident at the elementary and middle school levels.The State of Oregon's research on small schools has shown that elementary schools in the 200-300 size range not only tend to have better educational outcomes for kids, they do not cost any more to operate than larger schools. And, as Ms. Meier pointed out, the total long-term cost is actually lower, since kids who have benefited from a smaller learning environment are significantly more likely to end up graduating from high school.
At a time when PPS is considering closing smaller elementary schools for the sake of "efficiency" -- despite their outstanding achievement and strong community support -- we must not lose sight of the compelling educational and fiscal reasons for keeping these nurturing, successful, community-based programs open in our Portland neighborhoods. Closing neighborhood schools and busing kids to consolidated "mega-schools" is not a viable strategy if PPS wishes to increase achievement, spend its money wisely, and keep families in the public system.
Smaller schools located in smaller buildings are efficient and "right-sized" -- they should be left alone so that staff and parents can focus on education rather than having to constantly fight for their existence. In larger buildings, the district can "co-locate" administrative staff or rent extra space to community programs. Smaller schools work for Portland's children. They should be nurtured and celebrated, not threatened.
Sincerely,
Ruth Adkins