Small School Distributive Education.

Overview & Synopsis

Information on an atypical 1966-67 Distributive Education pilot program in New Mexico was given. The program was unique since one instructor conducted this program in two schools which were in separate rural districts (Dexter and Hagerman). Since both communities were primarily agricultural, with small student populations, the cost of such a program was prohibitive for either district. Objectives were to establish a program in the two schools that was sufficiently flexible to meet students' needs, and to develop a distributive education curriculum. The project was financed through local schools and the Vocational Education Division, State Department of Education. A preliminary survey indicated that students who were previously identified as potential dropouts, and who enrolled in the program, were still in school. It was felt by the distributive education teacher and the school administration that this program was increasing the holding power of small schools. (KM)