Fifth, schools should find ways to
enhance academic achievement by
personalizing the
learning environment so that it feels smaller, more intimate, and more conducive to focused
learning, and so that staff can connect with students more frequently.
Small Schools and Small
Learning Communities Though not sufficient in itself, «smallness» creates a personalized learning environment that enhances teaching and learning at the middl
Learning Communities Though not sufficient in itself, «smallness» creates a
personalized learning environment that enhances teaching and learning at the middl
learning environment that
enhances teaching and
learning at the middl
learning at the middle level.
For these and other reasons, an extensive body of research suggests that small schools and small
learning communities have the following significant advantages: • Increased student performance, along with a reduction in the achievement gap and dropout rate • A more positive school climate, including safer schools, more active student engagement, fewer disciplinary infractions, and less truancy • A more
personalized learning environment in which students have the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with both adults and peers • More opportunities for teachers to gather together in professional
learning communities that
enhance teaching and
learning • Greater parent involvement and satisfaction • Cost - efficiency Ultimately, creating successful small
learning communities and small schools at the middle level increases the chances for students to be successful in high school and beyond.