This Digest discusses why teachers leave small school districts and suggests strategies for recruiting and retaining teachers. Many teachers employed in small schools come reluctantly and do not stay. One state helps fund shared services, and a few states fund regional centers or intermediate districts which provide or coordinate shared services.
States vary in their recognition of teacher salary costs.
New Mexico, for example, recognizes training and experience while Nebraska recognizes training only. If local school districts were to recognize multiple endorsements and teaching assignments, then the general aid formula might also be changed to reflect these additional incurred costs. Many states provide additional funding to small districts through transportation and capital outlay assistance. An idea gaining momentum is that of locally supported school foundations. Long a tactic of higher education, the concept is moving down the educational ladder and may provide additional funding.