A comparative study of selected K-12 consolidated and nonconsolidated school districts in the state of Nebraska, 1987-1988

The topic of school district consolidation has received the attention of educators for many years. Advantages and disadvantages of consolidation have been reported in a variety of studies. Although the number of Nebraska schools district has decreased significantly, the debate over consolidation has continued in the State Legislature and among the people of the State. The study compared individuals\u27 opinions regarding the consolidation of school districts. The individuals included students, parents/legal guardians, and administrators from selected K-12 Nebraska school districts that had consolidated and selected K-12 Nebraska school districts where consolidation of districts was defeated by a vote of the people. The decision regarding consolidation or nonconsolidation was made by the people during the school years 1975-1976 through 1981-1982. Subject were asked to complete and return a questionnaire. The return rate of completed forms was 64.5 percent. There was no significant difference between the opinions of the subjects regarding selected education-related items. These items included teacher preparation, variety of courses offered, bus route miles traveled, number and variety of activities, and number and variety of student support services. There was no significant difference between the opinions of the subjects regarding satisfaction with their schools. The subjects in the study tended to be supportive and satisfied with their school districts. Data from the sample school districts concerning the percentage of classes taught by properly endorsed teachers, expenditure-per-pupil ratios, school accreditation, number of attendance centers, and percentage of high school students participating in Nebraska School Activity Association sponsored activities were also compared. Information beneficial to school board members, administrators, and other committee members who are considering school district consolidation was provided in the study. The findings of this study will be of interest to higher education personnel, especially when serving on a consolidation team or preparing reports to be shared with the legislature