First, funding is frequently tied to enrollment. Since rural districts usually serve fewer children, they have less construction money available. Second, rural districts tend to have lower property value assessments, so when facilities funding is tied to property values, less money is available to borrow. Third, even when rural districts have relatively high property value assessments, citizens still may not be willing to pay for improvements. Some school reform efforts suggest schools should make more of an effort to include parents, provide health and social services for children, and provide day care.
Technology is another driving force behind building modification.
Technology could help many rural schools overcome barriers associated with isolation by linking educators to professional development and curriculum resources. Without the necessary infrastructure, however, schools cannot realize the true potential of technology. Rural school facilities are also challenged by demands to meet federal mandates. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires schools to accommodate those with special needs by installing features such as access ramps, automatic doors, and elevators. In addition, some schools are struggling to remove hazardous building materials, including asbestos, lead paint, and radon gas.