The process of considering school consolidation: A qualitative case study

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the values and beliefs of a small select group of Scottsbluff and Gering, Nebraska residents regarding consolidation of their two school districts. The focus of the study was on the complexities of the issue of consolidation for the participants. To set the backdrop for the discussion about consolidation, they described their early years including their family\u27s influence about education, their own K-12 school experiences in Gering and Scottsbluff, the rivalry that had existed over time between the two towns, and their own commitment to community. The study delved into the participants\u27 views on the advantages and disadvantages of consolidation, its potential impact on community, and its influence on students. Change was explored: how resistance to any change was seen as a blocker, how future community crises would impact the receptivity to consolidation; what process for consolidating the schools should be followed; and what leadership would be required to convince the community to support consolidation. The information gained from this study pointed to the importance of considering the more human, emotional issues related to the controversial subject of consolidation of two school districts. The overall community identity and the relationship with schools were closely intertwined. The participants in the research talked about their financial and economic concerns for the future, the current curriculum and programs offered by the public schools, and how community and students might be impacted by a consolidation attempt. The researcher concluded that the logical, rational arguments that might have otherwise sold a consolidation plan may not have been enough to convince residents who had a strong emotional attachment to their schools. Many Gering, Nebraska residents felt their community was unique and wished to preserve its individuality. A proposal to consolidate schools with Scottsbluff would need to address the community\u27s concerns about losing its identity. Other more specific steps to consolidation were recommended by the researcher. The technical merger of Scottsbluff and Gering schools would require extensive study of how to logistically combine two governing boards, staff, administration, facilities, and curricula. The researcher expanded on a few key components of marketing and ultimately selling a consolidation plan to the two communities\u27 residents