Mutual respect is the norm because people know one another well enough to understand their skills and values. Small schools allow teachers to simplify the organization rather than simplify the children. Instead of using a standardized approach to accommodate a complex bureaucracy, small schools can build organizational structures that recognize human individuality. Safety is enhanced. Small schools are less likely to intimidate parents, who are then more likely to get involved.
Accountability is simplified.
Smaller Is Better . But many elementary schools are also beginning to explore the advantages of smallness. In this issue of Catalyst, Veronica Anderson describes the practical realities of creating and operating a small elementary school in a large building. Anderson sets the stage by describing the small-schools movement in Chicago, where some 125 small schools have been formed in recent years. The four principles guiding these efforts have been a self-selected faculty, complete or partial autonomy, a cohesive pedagogical approach, and an inclusive admissions policy.