School Size and Student Achievement
Well managed small schools are often the best for student achievement. Unfortunately EPSB has a record of ignoring sound research. In this case, the research of its own staff. This report could not be found on EPSB website. Please download and read the full report.
EPSB has excellent staff. However, it would seem that “the corporation” at times suppresses their advice.
Here are a few excerpts from the report…
“After the war, there was a move to the cities, increased urban sprawl, and a baby boom resulting in increased school size. It was the feeling of the time that large schools with between 500 - 2000 students could offer more comprehensive instructional programs of greater quality, provide teachers the opportunity to track their students according to ability and put less strain on community resources.”
“Smallness is a prerequisite for the climate and culture that we need to develop the habits of heart and mind essential to a democracy. Such a culture emerges from authentic relationships built on face-to-face conversations by people engaged in common work and common work standards.” Meier (1996)
School boards are accountable for the achievement of students. Note how the report concludes:
“Is there a perception among students and parents that the quality of education received has deteriorated as a result of amalgamation? Have the displaced student's marks declined as measured by HLAT's and Provincial Achievement Results? Has satisfaction with the district declined because of displacement?”
“Another area of interest to explore would be to examine schools with high achievement results and ascertain the characteristics and perceptions of the school as determined by principals, teachers, parents and students. Is there a correlation between academic achievement and student, parent and teacher satisfaction as determined by survey results? On-going research within the district could provide answers to some of these questions and provide direction that would continue to ensure quality education for all students.”
“On-going research within the district could provide answers to some of these questions and provide direction that would continue to ensure quality education for all students.”