Organizational Practices of High-Achieving Rural School Districts

• In Event: Rethinking School System Organization and Practice

Abstract

For over 25 years, researchers have identified 'best practices' used by high-achieving school districts. However, little research exists regarding rural school systems, making it difficult to determine whether the best practices identified are relevant within this context. This study filled a void in research by focusing on the organizational practices of high-achieving, small, rural school districts. The findings from this study demonstrate the complex interrelatedness of organizational practices and the variables that attribute to internal coherence within a district, which results in higher levels of student achievement. The findings provide educators with a greater understanding of organizational practices that may assist rural and other school districts in identifying, understanding, and engaging in organizational practices that lead to high academic achievement.

Authors

• Amanda Lopez Doerksen, California State University, Fresno

• Donald Wise, California State University - Fresno