Superintendent Perspectives of Financial Survival Strategies in Small School Districts

Abstract


 
 
 
 The purpose of this qualitative, narrative study was to investigate the perceptions of successful small-school superintendents in regard to maintaining or improving district efficiency and financial status. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with seven purposefully selected small-school superintendents. Findings suggest that in their efforts to increase revenues, these superintendents are seeking to understand and to navigate the state’s funding system to its maximum potential and to the greatest benefit for their districts. They are looking outside their districts for expert advice in their efforts toward improved revenue projection. Additionally, they are accepting out-of-district transfer students to generate revenue. Other areas of improved efficiency include personnel considerations, reducing district expenditures through purchasing and energy use.
 
 
 
 

Identifying and Allocating Resources for Learning Improvement

“…As a result, the vision for local schools is often closely tied to individual community values (Hardré, 2007). Residents see schools as a critical part of their local infrastructure and as an institution that gives them a sense of community and identity (Abshier, Harris, & Hopson, 2011). The tight coupling between schools and communities increases the scrutiny that rural administrators may face.…”

“…Rural administrators actively engage the community in the life of the school with an emphasis on building investment in students' academic success. This involvement is particularly important because it honors the school as the social hub of rural communities (Abshier et al, 2011;Lyson, 2002). Examples of these social events include carnivals, holiday programs, and parades.…”

Management of School Finances in South African Schools

“…There is a clear evidence that some of small public schools in districts across state of Texas in United States are struggling financially (Abshier et al 2011). There is a major difference in terms of how school finance policy is implemented globally which seems to be "political."…”

The four day school week : a case study examining three stages of implementation

“…One of the top concerns of school administrators currently and historically has been fiscal management (Abshier, Harris et al 2011). Schools are receiving less state funding than in 2010 in at least 37 states, and in at least 30 states, school funding now stands below 2008 levels -often far below (Oliff & Leachman, 2011).…”

“…One of the top concerns of school administrators currently and historically has been fiscal management (Abshier, Harris et al 2011 Both building administrators and staff members agree that moving to the four day school week was a financial move. "I don't think it was ever presented as anything other than a money saving thing" stated one staff member.…”