Should Small-Sized Schools Be Closed?

Abstract

   This article seeks to explore the current landscape of small school management within the primary education sector, which serves as a foundational element for community well-being, human capital development, and national progress. The number of small schools has been steadily increasing each year, driven primarily by a continual decline in birth rates. While the closure of small schools may be seen as a strategic move, it often leads to challenges such as increased travel burdens, disruptions to local economies, and the erosion of community culture and relationships. Conversely, maintaining an excessive number of small schools without strategic consolidation may compromise both budgetary efficiency and educational quality. Therefore, optimizing the management of educational resources necessitates a context-sensitive approach to school consolidation—taking into account student enrollment, the number of schools in an area, and geographic conditions. Crucially, any restructuring must prioritize the potential impacts on students, local communities, and all relevant stakeholders. The sustainable development of small schools, with the aim of enhancing educational quality and resilience, requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. By adopting network-based administrative models and emphasizing participatory governance, it is possible to ensure equitable access to quality education for every child.